“He told them another parable: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in it’s branches.” (Matthew 13:31-32)
One of the details that I love about Columbus, TX is the presence of live oaks throughout our community. Of course, I have encountered live oaks in other parts of of the state, but they are prolific here. And revered. Our streets part to protect the live oak. Several of our live oaks are hundreds of years old and hold historic significance, explained by a bronze plaque at their base.
I find these trees fascinating. Much like the scripture about the mustard tree, a live oak becomes a living host for all sorts of animal and plant life. Live oaks are an entire ecosystem to themselves. I’ve been paying attention to the live oak in our front yard since we moved here two weeks ago. I’ve already witnessed ants scurrying along it’s bark, frogs hopping about the root system, and cardinals and owls alighting on it’s branches. I’ve heard the woodpecker drilling for the butterfly and moth larvae carefully laid beneath the outer creases. I’ve witnessed the squirrel scurrying about it’s limbs.
Most of this animal life is to be expected, but what truly holds my attention are the plants. I’ve found all manner of moss and ivy and ferns growing upon the drooping branches. Heavy vines drape down, large enough to support the weight of a full-grown man. Spanish moss drips from the limbs. (Interesting aside; did you know that spanish moss is microscopically airborne and that’s how it spreads from tree to tree?) Spongy mushrooms cluster on the thick trunk and in the nutrient rich soil at it’s base. The Smithsonian website states that live oaks “serve as habitats for hundreds of plants and animals.” Additionally, the live oak has stood for centuries as symbol of safety, strength and resilience.
When we first moved into our country cottage, Rob and I noticed the brown, crunchy-looking organic debris on the lowest limb of our live oak in the front yard. We wondered what it was and how long it had been there. A few days passed and then it rained. Within hours, the brown was gone and the tree limb was bursting with green fronds. A friend on instagram revealed the name of these fascinating fronds: resurrection ferns. A little research told me that resurrection ferns can look for all the world to be dead, but a little rain comes and revives them again. Scientists believe they can go as long as a hundred years between rainfalls and still spring back to life when they receive moisture.
I keep thinking about these amazing trees and the plethora life amidst their limbs, and the mustard seed scripture and the Church. As believers, we are called oaks of righteousness; a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor. Like the glorious live oaks of the coastal region, we are created to stand firm and provide a place of respite amidst our branches. Hurting people find hope, rest and manna within the well-watered limbs of a thriving, growing church. We can, with the Holy Spirit’s help, host all kinds of life. Some inhabitants may even be revived in our branches. And in all of this: God gets the glory!
“They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.” (Isaiah 61:3b NIV)
Lord, let us stand as believers and as the Church. May we thrive in spiritual health. May we grow deeper and wider in Your love and truth. May our roots seek You out, establishing an unseen foundation as our limbs stretch out in unending praise. May our faith create a habitat that nurtures and protects others as they find You for themselves. Let life burst forth from our branches in Jesus’ name. Amen.