Living Leaves

It may sound like a dumb thing to write about this morning, but there it is. As I look outside the front door on this fine morning in July, I see many living leaves. However, there are on that same branch a few dead ones from last year too. The dead leaves still have their place on the branch, but they are clearly dried up and no longer among the living. We are reminded that even where all seems full of life, not all is truly full of life. Sound a bit depressing? Jesus described those who appear full of life but are actually dead in the spirit in similar terms. As our Lord looked around Jerusalem, He could see those who went about the activities of life, but were already dried up and dead on the inside. Maybe that should be on the 'sinside'.

In this world, the vine of life may not eject those dead leaves right away. Some may appear to prosper and flourish in some ways, such as in wealth or fame or accomplishment. The death of that little branch is already written for those to see that can. Some of those who appear prosperous and healthy to us, may have no roots attaching their life to that true vine that gives life abundantly. A plucked rose does not appear to show signs of wilting for some hours or days. However, the life has been taken from that bloom as soon as the stem was cut, we simply lack the necessary vision to see the dying process until it is well advanced. Like the proverbial decapitated barnyard fowl, many run around in this life already dying in the eyes of eternity. There is hope even for the nearly expired though.

By leaving the grave on the third day, Jesus showed that no one is without hope while He is Lord. As long as some spark of life, perhaps buried deeply in sin, remains, there is hope that life may be restored. With a command, Jesus healed him thought long dead and already rotting away in the grave. With a word, Peter's mother arose from a fever. From near at hand or far away on the road, Jesus exercised His authority over life and death. Does your leaf appear a little dried up today because of health or wealth issues? Have no fear, Jesus restores with a gentle touch.

Bucky