When all that’s Left is a Naked Tree

“Happy New Year!”

Our house exploded with family and friends hugging and wishing each other the best of everything.

As much as I enjoyed the celebrations and gift-giving, I was ready to put everything away and start the new year in a clean and tidy house.

Early the next morning I went room by room, putting everything away, living the tree for last.

“You missed an ornament,” my husband said pointing to the center of the tree.

It was a nativity scene ornament, a gift from some dear friends, hiding behind some branches.

“Poor thing,” he added, “Just last night it was shining so bright. After removing the ornaments and lights all that’s left is a sad, naked tree.”

“That’s interesting,” I responded. “All that’s left is Jesus on a naked tree…”

So, what happens when all we have is a naked tree?

What happens when all the ornaments, lights and ribbons are stripped away from our life?

What happens when we realize that more shopping won’t make us feel prettier, more social media won’t make us feel less lonely, more work won’t make us feel more valuable, and more food won’t make us feel more comforted?

After giving all the above a try, one day I realized it all failed to provide lasting results.

Many years ago, I discovered Jesus, who hung unfairly on a cross, so that I did not have to.

He did it for me and He did it for you!

He was rejected so we could be accepted, He was bruised so we could be healed, He died so we could be saved.

In His love letter to us He reminds us:

• He created us just the way we are- “You formed my inward parts; you knitted me in my mother’s womb.” Ps 139:13(NLT)
• We are never alone – “You have searched me oh Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.” Psalm 139
• He knows our needs and will provide for them- “For He satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” Psalm 107:9

These are just a few reminders we can use when we don’t feel our best.

The Bible is bursting with answers and promises for anything we may be facing.

My bare, decoration-less tree is now stuck in a box until next Christmas.

Thankfully, the Cross is also naked because Jesus is alive, knocking at the door of our hearts so we can let Him in and give Him an opportunity to show Himself strong for us.

He wants to save us, love us, heal us, provide for us, protect us, guide us and much, much more.

He will never, ever give up on you.