from the pen of Jeff Joyner
Several years ago a friend of mine took this picture in Montana. I was so captivated by this landscape, that I stared at it in silence for several moments. I could see this was not just your ordinary picture.
What first caught my attention was the dead tree in the front. It was the first thing I saw. The tree was now a mere shadow of what it once was. As I continued to examine it, I began to visualize what it must have looked like before the onset of decay. I also wondered what external factors attributed to its demise. Then I finally looked past the tree. Off in the distance was an incredibly beautiful display of God’s handiwork. I knew there was something else God wanted me to see in this picture.
The dead tree represents past loss or dried up dreams. And like that tree, I can become stranded in a desolate place, unable to see the beauty that lies beyond it. Because I live in this dark and decaying world, I can be overwhelmed by the journey that still lies ahead. Yet as a follower of Christ, I must keep my eyes on the beauty that awaits me. An eternity in the presence of the King of kings and Lord of lords.
I was so grateful to have seen my friend’s picture. For it reminded me that I have everything I need to finish my journey homeward. I have Jesus who will be with me every step of the way.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6