Principal's Message
Outside my office window in our home in Fresno, California, I spent countless hours gazing at the above birch tree, just within my view. Over time, that tree and I became unlikely companions. As an artist, I’ve studied its colors, shapes, volume, and the lines formed by its branches stretching into space. Each observation offered a new perspective, a small detail that escaped my notice. But beyond its beauty, the birch has also become a source of spiritual renewal, a quiet reminder of deeper truths.
One afternoon, as I was intently observing its trunk, I noticed something peculiar: a shape in the bark that resembled an eye gazing directly back at me. (picture below) For a moment, I was taken aback. I don’t believe trees possess souls, yet the sight of that "eye" made me wonder—if it had a soul, what would it see in me? What would it think, and if it could speak, what would it say?
This simple observation brought to mind several scriptures about God’s eyes being upon His people. I remembered the words, “The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous and His ears toward their cry.” The imagery of God's watchful, ever-present, and attentive eye came alive to me at that moment. Like the birch that stood silently by my side, God watches over us, quietly attentive to our lives, always ready to hear our prayers.
Psalm 33:18 says, “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His steadfast love.” What an incredible comfort to know that God sees us in all our joyful and challenging moments. We are not hidden from Him. His loving gaze is fixed on us, offering guidance, peace, and reassurance.
Thank you, Mr. Birch Tree, for the gentle reminder that I am never alone. Just as I study you each day, God studies me—watching, guiding, and listening. May I always remember to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, as He keeps His eyes on me.
Scriptures to Reflect On:
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Psalm 34:15 — “The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears toward their cry.”
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Psalm 33:18 — “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His steadfast love.”
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1 Peter 3:12 — “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer.”
May these verses encourage you this week as you walk through the days, knowing that God’s eyes are lovingly upon you.
The above article was written by Mr. Norton and Ai edited.
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