We have a large quirky tree in our backyard. It has been badly scarred and mangled by storms. Branches, which survived breaking, hang contorted and deformed. This winter was uncharacteristically severe, with bitter cold and more snow than normal. The winds were strong and relentless. Still, much of our quirky tree stubbornly clings to its crunchy brown leaves.
Life’s storms and trauma not only leave scars, they change everything. The stress and harshness of this season of life changed me. Every time I fight to get up, I am dealt another bone-crushing blow. It. Just. Won’t. End. I have struggled to breathe, struggled to see and think clearly, struggled to get up, and struggled to find hope. Struggled. It has seemingly lasted forever. I have continuously reached new levels of exhaustion I did not know existed.
I understand clinging to what was once beautiful. I fixedly grasp because it is all I have left of what was. I cling tightly to what I know. But those old leaves are brittle and lifeless. Their season has passed. No matter how tightly I clench them, they cannot be revived. I am powerless to resuscitate them. However, I, like my tree, am still very much alive. A new season of life and fruitfulness is coming for both of us. Although it is taking longer than I hoped, spring is coming. It too will bring storms, but it also brings fresh new life.
Like my tree, I am deeply and firmly rooted in Christ. Neither my tree nor I will ever look “normal” again, but we have gained strength that comes only through adversity. We live, but the old dead leaves have to go to make room for new life.
“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ” (Ph. 3:13b-14 NIV). I want to take hold of everything He saved me for, but first I must let go. Let go and press on my sweet friend; new life awaits!
Life’s storms and trauma not only leave scars, they change everything. The stress and harshness of this season of life changed me. Every time I fight to get up, I am dealt another bone-crushing blow. It. Just. Won’t. End. I have struggled to breathe, struggled to see and think clearly, struggled to get up, and struggled to find hope. Struggled. It has seemingly lasted forever. I have continuously reached new levels of exhaustion I did not know existed.
I understand clinging to what was once beautiful. I fixedly grasp because it is all I have left of what was. I cling tightly to what I know. But those old leaves are brittle and lifeless. Their season has passed. No matter how tightly I clench them, they cannot be revived. I am powerless to resuscitate them. However, I, like my tree, am still very much alive. A new season of life and fruitfulness is coming for both of us. Although it is taking longer than I hoped, spring is coming. It too will bring storms, but it also brings fresh new life.
Like my tree, I am deeply and firmly rooted in Christ. Neither my tree nor I will ever look “normal” again, but we have gained strength that comes only through adversity. We live, but the old dead leaves have to go to make room for new life.
“Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ” (Ph. 3:13b-14 NIV). I want to take hold of everything He saved me for, but first I must let go. Let go and press on my sweet friend; new life awaits!
Posted in Struggles
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6 Comments
Letting go is difficult. It is a process. I feel your grief. But you are right. Walking through the grief, Jesus is there. He will help us press forward as we hope in Him.
Well said Laura, life can seem like a Rollercoaster at times. Ups and downs, followed by quick turns and heart stopping drops. Still our faith keeps us going and growing from our journey.
"Forgetting what is behind, and STRAINING toward what is ahead..." Lord help me to keep pressing and to keep growing through struggles.
I love your description of the tree...the branches and leaves...and who our life weathers a storm like a tree.
Your faithfulness is encouraging. Yes, keep your eyes on Jesus...always.
Thank you for sharing! The letting go is hard, but it is a must to move forward like you said!
That was so humbling. It is so inspiring to her your story and how you are so deeply rooted in Christ to continue to fight for the joy in him!!💜
It is so beautiful how you related your life with the damaged tree. We are all damaged to done degree but God still loves us and can use us in so many ways. We may be different but with Christ we are more beautiful!!!!💜💜💜💜