A Mighty Tree

Bible Reading: PSALM 1:1-6

Ben gaped at the humongous eucalyptus tree. His head was thrown back so he could look up, up, up to the crown. He and his father had planned a daytrip into the lush Tasmanian rainforest just to view this megalith.

“The Centurion is the tallest tree in Australia,” his dad told him. “At a hundred meters, it’s one of the tallest trees in the world. Only a handful of redwoods stand taller.”

“Is it as tall as a skyscraper?” Ben asked in awe.

“No. But it is higher than London’s clock tower, Big Ben, and New York’s Statue of Liberty.”

“How can it stay up?” Ben asked, still gawping skyward.

“Look at its base,” said Dad. “That massive system of roots reaches deep into the earth, holding it in place.”

After circling the trunk three times, stretching to see how far they could reach around it and taking several snapshots, Ben’s father led the way out of the forest. “You know, the Centurion reminds me of the passage in Psalms that says a righteous person is like a tree.”

Ben laughed. “Will he grow leaves in his hair?”

Dad smiled. “I think it means that someone who is rooted in Jesus will be able to stand firm in his faith.” He gestured back toward the Centurion. “Can you imagine trying to push that tree over?”

“No way!” Ben exclaimed.

“When we trust in Jesus, He will help us do what’s right, even when those around us do something wrong.”

“Like when the other kids tease Billy Mason because he stutters?” His father frowned. “Do you tease Billy?”

“No.”

“Do you stand up for him?”

Ben hesitated then shook his head.

“It can be hard,” Dad said. “Loving others and doing what’s right often makes us stand out. But when we’re rooted in Jesus and rely on Him to help us obey Him, the Bible says we will flourish, just like the Centurion tree.”

Ben thought about this all the way back to the car. As they entered the parking lot, he picked a eucalyptus leaf and stuffed it in his pocket.

“What’s that for?” his father asked.

“It’s just a reminder. For the next time my friends tease Billy.” MICHELLE ISENHOFF

How About You?

Can you think of a time when you chose right when others did wrong? Were you teased for it? It may be hard sometimes, but when you’re rooted in Jesus, you can always choose to do what’s right. By His strength, you can grow to be like a mighty tree that stands firm in His goodness and love.

Today’s Key Verse:
PSALM 1:1-2 BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO DOES NOT WALK IN STEP WITH THE WICKED…BUT WHOSE DELIGHT IS IN THE LAW OF THE LORD. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Stand firm for what’s right.