A leafy tree casting its summer shade over a tranquil lake or meandering stream is my favorite heart-image—a picture that’s taken root in my heart. This imagined scene helps me envision who I want to be as a follower of Christ. It comes from Psalm 1:

“Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (verses 1-3).

I mull those words over, and the Holy Spirit works in my heart. I’m filled with yearnings and questions. I want to be this tree! How do I delight in and meditate on the Lord’s teachings so that I have a fruitful life? Nearly everything conspires to tear me away from these tranquil, life-giving waters. 

Silence comes to mind—space for the Lord and me to talk. Prayer comes to mind. I can ask the Lord to keep my roots wet and my leaves green. Memorization also comes to mind. Daunting? Perhaps, but so helpful. When I truly know these words, I carry this picture with me. Love for the Lord and his ways fills my heart. I begin to “prosper in whatever I do.”

Lord, let your life flow through me. Keep my leaves green. Make my heartwood new. Amen.