Peace in a Tree

Today I went to the bridge at 31st and Riverside with one of my roomies to take some pictures for her class. While I was basking in the sun and taking in the serenity of the moment, I noticed one particular tree. This trees is all by itself, no leaves (why would it? It's Feb) but there was nothing around it at all. The tree was standing rooted in the hillside and looked completely content. It seemed to be rooted deep into the ground and not at all aware of the crazy noise of cars passing by and all the runners/walkers out for this "heat wave". This tree looked more at home than out of place and yet in complete solitude. There were many things further away from this tree, rocks, benches, the bridge, other trees, people, cars, etc, but it was alone. It's branches were stretched out far and looked as if it were worshipping the sun. It really was a great moment in my heart.

                  (this isn't the actual tree but this is the idea)

As I gazed upon this tree for a moment, I felt like I could compare my life in this season to this tree. More times than not, I feel like I am in a season of solitude. Many of my friends are experiencing significant life changes with jobs, relationships, travel, school, careers, and so much more. But through all these changes I find myself spending less time with them and more time with myself, more time with Jesus. I find that anytime I feel like I have finally caught up with life, something else in life happens to bring me a step back whether it be an unexpected bill, car troubles, etc, something usually happens. I've seen these moments as trials, tests to see where my emotions lie. I was chatting with a friend the other night and I came to this realization, "is Jesus really all I need? Do I feel content with losing everything and having only Jesus?" I would hope that when all else is lost, I would be like that single tree with branches raised worshipping my Son, my Savior!

(if you've never been there you should go. It's an old wooden bridge look, there is fishing and a small dam. the sunsetting, the sound of the water on the dam, with temps in the 70s, was definitely a calming moment)