The Tree of Life
This tree – the Royal Poinciana, has to be the most beautiful tree I’ve ever seen in Florida. Maybe anywhere! This particular one is right next to the sidewalk where I walk almost every day, and almost every day I look across the pond and picture this tree in my backyard in Indiana. The only difference would be….. I would probably have a swing hanging from one of its limbs, or maybe a hammock underneath.
Here’s the thing… I’ve done my research and I can’t take this type of tree to my home in Indy. No matter how much I love it, no matter how perfect it seems, and no matter how much it seems right to have it there — it just can’t happen. My will can’t make it happen.
The same with heaven. There are many people who I want to see in heaven, but it’s not about my will or what I want. I can’t make that happen for them.
Listen, I understand why people question faith, religion, what it means to have a relationship with the Lord, life and death. What I don’t understand is how people get stuck there, and why anyone takes a chance and lives life as if there isn’t a God, a heaven or hell.
I have made many mistakes in my lifetime. There have been times when I wondered if I messed up too much – you know, like so much that God wouldn’t let me into heaven. And then I read His word, and I am reminded that he does forgive us when we mess up.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9
God loves us this much….
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believe the in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16
I don’t know about you, but I believe it’s worth it to live life trusting, believing in and loving God. Hope you do, too.
“Only God’s grace lets me see my strengths and my weaknesses at the same time and believe that neither one decide my value.” ~ Jesse Eubanks
Hope to see you on the other side…..
Live-Write 
Oh I want to be in that number! Your words really moved me. Way to shine sister!