Maybe this tree pictures a believer sent by God to grow, serve and watch in a difficult and lonely place. Perhaps it is sturdy enough to survive alone by the waters as a missionary tree—or maybe an evangelist. It has endured and grown. Outwardly, it looks alone and barren, but through many springs it has been true to the life within and continued to produce seed. Some of those seeds may find a nearby niche or crevice to grow in. Some may be carried to richer soil by the winds, water and birds. Eventually other trees will sprout and grow.
Change that begins with one or two lonely plants growing in hard rock also reminds me of Route 37 in South Central Indiana. Many years ago, long stretches of Indiana highway were rebuilt by blasting and cutting through limestone deposits. Seeds soon began to grow in all the niches and crevices in the limestone. Trees, mostly spindly pines at first, sprouted, took root, grew and sent out roots. The rocks began to break up and crumble away. Once stony ridges are now covered by soil, sharp edges have softened and roads that wound through barren rock are now bordered by green. Tall grasses, shrubs, intentionally planted native wildflowers, and a variety of deciduous trees grow above the limestone. The roadsides welcome plant and animal life. Birds nest in trees and chipmunks and rabbits find seeds for food. On each return visit, I’ve noticed that the road banks are continuing to soften, some are already grassy rounded hillocks covered with sure layers of soil— their stoney foundation is visible only in occasional outcroppings.
Many of us start out with sharp edges like cut rock. If we submit to God’s weathering from external circumstances and seek to grow in Him, He will softens us and begin to build up good soil within our souls. As God’s Word finds tender fertile niches, it sends out roots that continue to break up the hardened rocky places in our hearts. Slowly, if we consistently obey God’s Word to love and forgive, God changes us into productive ground. It takes time for people to change, to become rich enough in Godly character to protect and nurture others, for God to use us to spread His living seed. Maybe that’s what this picture is about.
“Of all plans of insuring success, the most certain is Christ’s own—becoming a corn of wheat, [a seed], falling to the ground, and dying. ‘Verily, verily I say unto you, “Except a [seed] . . . fall into the ground and die, it abides alone. But if it dies, it brings forth much fruit.” T. G. Ragland, Missionary to India, quoting John 12: 24
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 NASB
