It was 12-ish years ago, before we moved into this house, that a strong storm broke off significant sections of the massive willow tree in our backyard. Remnants of the broken branches, some that are 3 and 4 feet across, stood up against the background of pastures and skies as a reminder of what had happened during that storm.
And, despite the significant trauma to the tree, it didn’t die.
Its roots held firm. While they tend to grow fairly shallow, they spread up to 3 times the height of the tree, grabbing hold of any source of nourishment or stability in their path.
But the most amazing thing about that willow tree, wasn’t that it remained standing the day after the storm. It is that it has continued to grow in spite of the damage it incurred.
Sure, the new growth doesn’t look the same, but it certainly has brought life back to that old tree.
I see similar patterns in many of the youth and families we serve at Eagle Village. Traumatic events can happen in a moment, causing significant personal and emotional trauma. Brokenness is often evident in their lives, standing as well as a reminder of the difficult experiences of the past.
And yet, just like my willow tree, we see something amazing happen as kids and families begin to heal. We see the strength of roots – connections to churches, communities, and supportive individuals – helping them to stand.
And, in time, we see new growth. We see glimmers of hope. We see new life emerge where only brokenness once stood as a stark reminder of the past. And we see a beautiful picture emerge of what true resiliency really looks like in the face of adversity.
In Isaiah 41:10, the prophet relates God’s words – a powerful encouragement for all who face these trying times: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
And these words are echoed in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, where Paul reminds us that surpassing power belongs to God, and therefore, though we are afflicted in every way, we are “not crushed.” And though there is confusion and uncertainty, we are “not driven to despair.” And though we face all kinds of obstacles and injury, we will not be destroyed.”
And while all these things are true for individuals and families who face significant trauma… so they are for our communities and our world. In the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, we face a societal trauma. Our churches, our camps, our businesses, and our communities have experienced injury that will change the way they look for years to come.
But there is hope.
There are roots that connect us to one another, for strength and nourishment.
There are already buds of new life springing up, and though they may look different, they are evidence that resilience is not only an individual phenomenon. It is the character of strong organizations and communities as well.
And, most importantly, there is the reminder, from God’s Word and his voice, that we will not be destroyed. He will strengthen us. He will uphold us. He will heal us, as we trust in his surpassing power.
Where do you already see glimmers of hope and new life in your community? Where do you see God’s power manifest in the midst of struggle?