I have a thing for real Christmas trees. Always have. For me…it makes Christmas, well real…

The other day as I was sitting quietly in my living room I was struck by this question:

Is your tree alive?

The question was almost silly. “Of course it is! My tree is big and gorgeous and green. It’s decorated with lights, memories and things that sparkle. It smells like pine and all things Christmas…”

“But…Is it ALIVE?.”  I sensed the Holy Spirit asking me again. (He was going somewhere with this, I could tell.)

I thought, “Well… It is a beautiful display and others compliment us. We give it water to drink.”

Again, He asked, “IS IT ALIVE?”

“A tree needs roots to sustain its life and it needs to bear some sort of fruit,” I said. “No.” I answered. “It looks alive. But it is not.”

I realized that in some ways, I am like my tree.

I can make a monument of my memories. The truth is, no matter how beautiful the memory, it is still dead. If I continue to make an idol of “what used to be”, I will miss the beauty of the new thing that is springing up now! (Isaiah 43:19)

Now I have a choice. I can turn my heart toward The Life Giver or I can continue with the display–a stunning tree with no roots.

I’m headed for the Life Giver!

How about you?  Afraid it’s been too long since you were connected to the root? Well, see that’s where we differ from our Christmas tree, friend! It is never too late!

Not sure where to start? Start there. Right there. Pause–right where you are, — and turn your heart toward him. Tell him you miss Him and you would like to sit with Him. He is there waiting for you. For he is as close as your next breath.

Beloved, may The Spirit of Living God stir your heart (and mine).  May you drink deeply from the well of salvation as you accept His invitation to connect with his heart. May He breathe into you the breathe of Life.

Now, Dear One. Now! Take a deep breath…And LIVE!