Last week I noticed this tulip tree (Magnolia liliiflora)
outside my classroom. Something in me stirred. And each time I step out my door
and see it again, this tree ministers to me. In San Jose, the tulip tree blooms in
mid-winter, when the dreary, rainy days cluster together and the nights get
colder. In the middle of seemingly lifeless days, this tree opens her hands in beauty
and splendor. Just as the first robin under the Iowa bird feeder speaks the hope of spring, this tree stands brilliantly for all to enjoy even as
winter continues.
Sometimes the life
of faith is like that. In the middle of a trial, or a test of faith, or a
conflict, God speaks life to those with eyes of faith to see Him. God’s
life-giving Spirit captivates our hearts, reminding us of God’s beautiful
presence and work in our lives. SJCS continues to focus on our theme, SPEAK
LIFE. And while often speaking life happens with well-intended, carefully
crafted words, let us not forget that the Holy Spirit speaks life, too. The
Spirit speaks to us without words in the stillness of a heart, with a thought
not our own, giving unexpected hope or beauty in the midst of a storm. God's
ways are mysterious--and what a wonderfully mysterious gift they are! We cannot control the
Spirit. We cannot force the Spirit. We cannot demand the Spirit. We can only
receive the Spirit.
I think deep down,
when I see this tree and my heart swells with all good things, I am reminded to
live with my heart open to the mysterious and beautiful life-giving work of
God. For indeed, it is God's work. God has been using this tree in my faith walk this week to speak hope,
speak life, speak courage in the storm, and speak perseverance in those places
where the sun is hard to see.
"As the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Instead of the thorn bush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the LORD's renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed." Isaiah 55:10-13
