“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” (Psalm 92:12)

“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon” (Psalm 92:12)

Trees are frequently mentioned throughout scripture and often have great significance as a metaphor or teaching tool. The simile of a tree is also used to depict a godly person.  In David’s first Psalm, he equates the righteous as “trees planted by streams which yield fruit in its season and their leaves do not wither. In all they do, they prosper” (Ps 1:3). 

Jeremiah also uses them in his prophetic imagery saying, “like a tree planted by water that sends outs its roots by the stream, it does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (17:8).

Thus, to be like a tree planted near a stream means you have a regular supply of nourishment and refreshment so as to sustain and grow – since water is the ultimate life source for all living things. Such trees will also develop good, strong root systems and consistently bear fruit in due season – which is its primary purpose. Therefore, we, too, must maintain our connection to this Living Water and drink from it freely so as to be “rooted and grounded in love” (Eph.3:17).

As we continue through this Lenten Journey, make certain that you take advantage of ALL the opportunities to receive the Eucharist, as it provides the Life-Giving Streams of spiritual nourishment we need to grow and mature in Christ.

Fr. John