I LEARNED SOMETHING TODAY ABOUT HEMLOCKS
I learned something today. Surprised? You shouldn't be. I learn something everyday that I'm alive and today was no exception.
This morning I was getting a lesson about the life and times of my friend,
The Hemlock.
It seems that while known as an evergreen and oblivious to the cold, it does still have enemies. While it is lying around maintaining its wonderful color, silently and secretly, an insect is making its way up the trunk and scooting up close to the needles of this remarkable conifer. This tiny insect, known as
The Hemlock Woolly Adelaide is visible only by the cloud like substance it presents to the branch. What is not visible is the poison it injects into the branches that will eventually kill this beautiful tree. The potential for destruction is great; one has only to remember the recent struggle with the Ash borer, and it's not beyond the possibility that thousands of Hemlocks could be destroyed over the course of a season.
So what can be done?
Well, it just so happens that arborists (think tree doctor) have a solution to the problem. Once recognized, the tree pastor will either inject the tree with a toxin that kills the pesky little insect right now, or for longer, deeper protection, distribute the poison on the ground around the tree trunk where it can soak in over time and work its way into the "
bloodstream" of the tree.
Are there lessons to be drawn from this humble evergreen and the dangers that confront it? You bet!
We find ourselves living and working in a world that has lost its way; a world alive with poisonous toxins that remain constant in their search for the most vulnerable parts of our lives. When they find their mark, its poison enters our system and slowly erodes our interest in godliness, and dilutes our desire to walk closely with the Lord. Before long, we may be sickened, and soon we are dead to the things of Christ.
The remedy?
Believers need not feel defeated in the face of this tiny predator. Each day, we can inject God's truth directly into our lives; its beauty and power comes from the Holy Spirit's discernment to provide just the right dose in just the right area.
What's more? As we spread the joy of prayerful intercession and a steady diet of exhortation from the local church all around us, we allow the truth to soak into our roots; thereby sustaining long-lasting growth.
Just today, a student of mine testified that in coming to Grace, she found herself surrounded by God's people, challenged by God's word, and strengthened in God's purposes... and that has made all the difference in her world.
Thanks, "Friend, Hemlock."
Walk wisely
