A bit of encouragement…
Have you ever looked at the leaves of a sassafras tree? Its bright green of summer transforms into deep, rust-colored reds and oranges in autumn producing a treat for the eyes as the seasons change. So beautiful.
But there’s something even more spectacularly unusual about this tree. On the same branch, the astute observer can find leaves with one lobe, two lobes, and three lobes. I did not make this interesting discovery on my own. My father—an expert on tree identification—first “introduced” me to the sassafras tree when I was a child. I remember giggling and suggesting that God must have a sense of humor.
As an adult, when I study sassafras leaves, I give thanks to God for hitting it out of the proverbial ballpark when He created this tree. Its beauty and uniqueness always cause me to pause and ponder for a few minutes. If He gave this much special attention to the design of one tree, how much more does He care for each of His human creations?
Having a bad day? Weary of waiting for a prayer to be answered? Grieving a tremendous loss? In the throes of a calamity? Worried about the health of a loved one? Plans not turning out as you had hoped?
Time for a scavenger hunt. Go find a sassafras tree. (Or an interesting tree that is native to your locale.) Enjoy its beauty and unique design. If it’s a breezy day, listen to the rustling of leaves. Remember that you too are a one-of-a-kind creation and are loved with an everlasting love by an omniscient, omnipresent Father.
And go ahead. Join with the leaves and clap your hands for joy—for God is holding you in the palm of His hands and there, you are always secure.
For ye shall go out with joy and be led forth with peace:
the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing,
and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
Isaiah 55:12 KJV