Life Out of Death

Today I walked through the Macdonald section of Tamborine Mountain and came across an enormous stump of a tree that fell some time ago.  It was of impressive size and a reminder that even the most seemingly solid, strong and longstanding specimens can only stand for limited time.

The almost solid canopy high overhead was broken where the large tree once stood, and light from above flooded the area.  I was surprised by the many smaller trees that were taken out when the great tree fell, gnarled and uprooted underneath.  The fall of the great tree impacted many other trees, a silent testimony of the damage a fall can have on others that spoke volumes.  As I walked the circuit there were many examples in various stages of decomposition.

But it was not all bad news:  the gap in the canopy allows direct sunlight which quickens other trees to sprout and grow towards the light.  This tree for many years had been likely suffering from an insect infestation that bored holes in the timber and reduced it to mush.  It was only a matter of time before the tree fell and made way for the regeneration of lush foliage that will grow high and strong.

The proof of revival was in the place where the tree fell, for trees large and small have begun to grow.  No tree could be the same one that fell, but the opportunity for others to reach such heights was now afforded all others that for some time had been overshadowed.  What is amazing is how God is able to bring revival to a stump like in the case of king Nebuchadnezzar.  His pride and subsequent fall did not mean he was destined to rot but to realise after 7 years the greatness and majesty of God.  His glory was restored to him.

Praise the LORD God is able to bring life out of death.  Jesus said in John 12:24, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain."  What is seen in the natural realm is true in the spiritual realm as Jesus demonstrated by His death and resurrection.  His temporary death made eternal life possible, for Jesus brought forth new creations redeemed with His own blood.  The Light of the World Jesus has shone forth, and we thus are enabled to grow in grace and the knowledge of God by the Holy Spirit given to us.  Having slain death, Jesus is the Gate to eternal life opened to us.  He bids us to arise and stand by His side now and forever.