It has been my routine for some time now to be in the Psalms each day.  As I consider Psalm 1, it begins by describing what a blessed man looks like. it goes on to say who this wise person does not associate with, and who they don’t take advice from.  Then  using the image of a tree, the Psalmist expresses what a person of wisdom is like.  The Psalmist states that they are like a tree planted by the water, with deep roots, and bearing fruit. 

     In an arid land such as Israel, the tree planted by the water would truly stand out.  That its roots would be deep, and would be needed to survive in such a place would be understood.  And that it would bear much fruit in and out of season, would be considered a true blessing.

     We can be such a tree the Psalmist says, by essentially being connected to the source.  The source for us being the creator and Lord of the universe, the Word and the Spirit.  Our very existence, nourishment, and any fruit that is born, comes only as we rely upon him.  Psalm 1 is in part setting the tone for how we are to view the Psalms.  But its message is certainly something for us to take to heart as we try to navigate through this fast paced and ever changing world that we live in.

     A Professor and Spiritual director that I know once had our class do an exercise related to a tree. I pass it on to you to try as you reflect upon what kind of tree you are.  Spend some time reflecting and meditating upon this Psalm.  Ask God to reveal to you what kind of tree you are. Then with paper and pencil, crayons, or chalk, draw yourself as a tree.  See what you come up with.  It’s a great exercise to do in a small group.  As you finish the drawing the tree share it with another and explain why it is you are that particular tree.

     So how connected are you?  How deep are your roots?  Do you bear any fruit?  What type of tree did you turn out to be?

Picture:  A Special Tree, by Eye of Einstein