A Christmas Tree Tale

This year we hiked into the forest to obtain our tree. We were prepared and excited for the day. Signs at the beginning of the trail warning of mountain lion presence were not daunting and we forged ahead. Soon we encountered a lone woman and her giant Malinois carrying her tree down like a prize strapped to her body for safekeeping.

We petted the dog, who was almost as tall as me, and visited for a bit. She told us she had hiked two miles up the mountain and beyond the meadow to find the perfect tree. She was a little thing but strong. I was certainly impressed. So, we carried on keeping our eyes peeled for the perfect tree. Along the way we spotted an old mine and took the opportunity for a break (for me). Up the trail a tree had fallen across the trail necessitating climbing over and under. He chose over. I got on my belly and scooted under.

One mile in we had not found “the one”. One point four in and there it was. Two of them standing beautifully in the forest. Stumps surrounding them providing evidence that others before us had found their perfect tree as well. Cutting commenced. I sat while said teee was being cut. We wrapped the tree with paracord and headed down the mountain. One point four in. One point four out with a tree strapped to my husband’s back.

A perfect for us tree hard sought after. Pursued. This was no perfectly formed artificial tree or farm grown tree cultivated to be placed in homes across America. This was a wild, forest, mountain pine! At home we realized trees look much smaller in the forest than they actually are. So, we had to cut some more and do some shaping. But still, a beautiful tree.

As most others around the world did, we circled the tree with lights and threw on some balls. But somehow, the tree was not right for me. I had chosen the wrong decorations for this wild tree. I’ll know better next year.

As New Year’s approached, I removed the decorations and lights and sat back in amazement. The tree was once again so beautiful it captivated me. It never needed the decorations. It had been created to display a natural beauty.

Isn’t this often the way of things? We try to cover ourselves to appear better or what expectations tell us is better. When all along we are beautiful, created by the hand of God. No, this is not me coming against pretty clothing, shiny jewelry, or makeup. I love those things. I am speaking metaphorically here.

We make attempts to find our identity in the coverings of professions, or in the roles we take on as family members, or church members. We try to stick labels on ourselves like decorations. Others try to stick labels on us and we accept them. We forget we are fearfully and wonderfully made. We forget our identity is in the God who formed us, planted us, and caused us to grow. We forget that same God pursued us as a highly sought after treasure. That He takes us for His own, prunes and cuts as needed so we fit in His kingdom for His glory. We bear His image. And no labels can ever make us more beautiful.

The only label that truly matters is HIS!