By Linda J. Humes
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17
I live in an area well known for forest fires. Several years ago a fire came through this area that was the largest Arizona forest fire in history – this year a new fire outgrew the previous by over 25%. People in this area are very aware of fire and its dangers – in fact, some live in fear all during fire season.
On a road I travel frequently is a tall pine tree. It would be quite majestic, except for a slight flaw. From one side the tree is green and lush and beautiful. From beneath the tree looking straight up, you would never notice that it was anything less than the trees nearby. But, as you come over a rise, driving toward it, you notice that there is a strip of black up the north side of the tree, and the top eight feet of the tree is charred and burned to the trunk.
Aren’t we a lot like that? That tree looks strong and majestic, from the right angle – just don’t look behind – just don’t look too high! How many times do we wonder if people would like us, would want to be around us, if they knew about the life behind us – the mess we just walked out of? Who would want to be near us if they heard the confusion and torment that races through our mind? Can we hide the burns of the past running up our back? Can we cover the charred memories of our mind? Do we cover our body in fashionable clothing and sweet fragrances to turn the eye from our flaws?
I have a savior, His name is Jesus. My Savior puts a healing salve on the burning pains of the past. My Savior brings down His Glory and restores tortured minds and souls. My Savior can make anyone whole who asks – no past sin is unforgiveable.
When I see that tree I think, “I was once like you.” I’m so glad that I have been restored by the restoring power of Jesus.
Linda J. Humes 
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