Living Together

Trees are home to all kinds of creatures—insects that nibble on their leaves and stems, birds that nest among their branches, and squirrels in search of fruit. With so many creatures coming and going as they please, a tree might find them bothersome at times. Yet a tree cannot live on its own. The wind, along with small animals and insects, helps trees reproduce by doing what they cannot do for themselves while rooted in place. Some even act as protectors, keeping natural enemies at bay. These creatures are longtime companions that have shared life with trees for generations.

All things were created according to God’s will (Rev 4:11). Even things that may seem harmful or useless at first have a purpose of their own. The same is true of people. Others can sometimes do what I cannot, while I may be able to provide what they need. When we overlook each other’s strengths and contributions and dwell only on what we find irritating, we can easily begin to feel that we alone are at a disadvantage or bearing the burden.

The children of Zion, each with their own unique qualities, are companions who live alongside one another, help each other grow spiritually, and will one day enter heaven together. What kind of heart should we have as we walk this path? Since this is the path set before us, may we move forward hand in hand, choosing to see the good in one another and treating each other with warmth, so that none of us walks alone.