This Oak Tree

……. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. Isaiah 61:3 (b)

Recently, I visited Kew Gardens and saw so many different types of oaks.  But one thing that caught my eye was that they all had one common feature, they were really large and strong. You could sit on the branches without fear. They reminded me of a strong house! The Oak tree is a good analogy for Christians, symbolizing strength, endurance, and steadfastness within the Christian faith. The oak's deep roots and sturdy trunk can be seen as fitting metaphors for the stability and resilience of believers rooted in Christ, spiritually. 

I learned that oak trees symbolize royalty, patriotism, endurance, stability and strength and resilience. But perhaps their greatest strength is nurturing wildlife. They are a haven for many wildlife species, providing vital spaces to eat, shelter and breed. Their life span is1000 years. It is said that an oak can soak up 50 gallons of water in one day. This means oaks can play an important role in flood-control efforts.

This passage in Isaiah proclaims that we can be oaks of righteousness founded, solidly in Christ. As we continue to explore how we can flourish during this season, let's look at how this scripture can speak to us today. When we are solidly founded in Christ no matter what hardships come our way he promises to give us the strength, stability, connection, and wisdom to go through. We can be resilient knowing that we have a solid foundation. We are reminded in Psalms 46 that: “The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts!  As we trust the Lord, we are growing day by day into his likeness.

The oak trusts in its strength to withstand the storms could be blown over, and the reed could bend with the wind but it survives. This could be an illustration showing how to survive in these turbulent, chaotic, and confusing times. Only the Lord can help us handle it as He says in Psalm 29:9 “The Lord twists mighty oaks and strips the forests bare”. Check out the picture of the Oak tree to see its immensity!!

Pray your response to the Lord personally, meaningfully and genuinely!

Reflect:

What situation (s) makes you feel unsafe today?   Take a moment now and ask God to help you build your “fortress of peace” in the midst of this threatening circumstance (s).

How much time do you spend getting to know God?