Discipleship Corner by Wendy Sykes
Falling Leaves/Falling Knees:
Oh, the abundant beauty of leaves in Fall! I find myself frantically taking pictures of trees at their glorious peak of color before they all begin fluttering to the ground. Reminiscent of teardrops, how silently they fall…but then looking down on a vibrant, leaf strewn path or yard also brings me great joy.
What I’ve come to appreciate in recent years is the leafless tree. Only then are we able to witness and appreciate the intricacy of its branches. I marvel at the starkness of its beauty—it too, is a wonder to behold. What we cannot see in that naked tree, is that losing its leaves actually represents a state of good health for the coming new growth. It is a time of conserving, protecting and returning nutrients to the soil for the tree roots to absorb.
I think there’s a lesson for us humans in this: While physical beauty may be attractive to the eye, it is our soul that beholds the beauty of our Lord. The many branches of faith reach wide and strong! If we are to “bear” one another’s burdens as the body of Christ, we need to become comfortable in “baring” our souls, with whatever may be troubling us—without fear of judgment. It’s where those silent teardrops find solace, and that once barren path comes alive with the vibrant color of Christian friendship. Aside from personal prayer, this should be the safest space on earth to share.
When we are rooted in Christ, there is an abundance of growth to be had in the sharing of burdens—with no apologies! It is a gift to self to be able to open up while seeking wise council, and it is a trusted privilege for the “counselor” to share in another’s journey—no matter what season we find ourselves in, or what we may be wrestling with. It has long been said that the family who prays together, stays together. This should always be true for a church family.
Love one another as I have loved you…
Wendy Sykes Jones
Discipleship Council
