Every Tree Has a Story: A Tale of Transformation and Purpose

In a sunlit courtyard, three trees stood side by side, each with a story etched in their bark. At first glance, they seemed ordinary: an orange tree that bore no fruit, and a wild thorny tree, a pair of guava trees with modest foliage, leaning precariously as though unsure of its place. Yet, within this trio of unremarkable trees lay a lesson waiting to unfold, one of renewal, community, and divine purpose.

The orange tree stood nearby, barren for years. Its branches reached skyward in silent defiance as if waiting for a miracle. Despite its unfruitfulness, it was spared the axe, its mere presence a quiet reminder that sometimes patience, not productivity, is the greater virtue. Then there was the wild thorny tree, neither planted nor planned, growing where nature willed. Thorny and unruly, it offered no shade, fruit, or apparent purpose. Yet, it stood, defiantly alive.

Amid these trees, a new arrival brought an unexpected twist. A few months ago, a passion fruit plant appeared, unbidden yet full of promise. Its delicate tendrils reached out, finding their way across the yard, weaving between the trees and embracing the situout. Encouraged by its resilience, the family nurtured it, preparing a place for it to thrive. In time, it began to bear fruit, its vibrant orbs a testimony to patience and care. The passion for the fruit was, at last, fulfilled through this passion fruit.

As the days passed, a miracle unfolded. The barren orange tree, long overlooked, began to bear fruit. Tiny green orbs appeared on its branches as if awakened by the joyful symphony of the babblers. It was as though the birds' presence breathed new life into the tree, stirring it to fulfill its purpose. Even the wild thorny tree played its part, providing a safe perch for birds scouting the area. 

Before we dive into the real story beyond these trees, let's take a moment to reflect on the purpose of those trees that were left standing.

A Call to Bear Fruit: Embracing Our Purpose

The story of the guava, orange, wild trees, and passion fruit highlights the importance of bearing fruit in our lives. Jesus warns that “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matthew 7:19), urging us to live lives that serve others, glorify God, and fulfill our divine purpose. Like these trees, we are often pruned and shaped by God, not as punishment but to prepare us for greater fruitfulness.

Jesus reminds us in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” Our calling to bear lasting fruit is by divine appointment. We are placed in our communities to serve and make a difference.

This challenge is clear: to live lives that benefit others, whether by offering comfort, nourishment, or standing as a symbol of resilience. Let us take inspiration from the trees, the jungle babblers, and the unexpected passion fruit plant, embracing unity, service, and fruitfulness. By doing so, we fulfill God’s plan, becoming instruments of His love, and bearing fruit that lasts for His glory. Let us commit to being fruitful and purposeful in God’s kingdom.

Hold your breath now, as we fly around these trees. Let your imagination soar a little higher, offering a bird's-eye view from above. Prepare to bring along fresh pages and a few crayons to sketch a colorful story on your blank sheets.  I suggest you continue reading only if you love exploring new perspectives through the written word. 

 THE GUAVA TREE & THE CHATTERING JUNGLE BABBLERS

Birds Beyond their name, Blending Communication into their Community, and Defining a Delicate Dynamic!

The guava stood modestly at the edge of the courtyard, a pair of small trees that had quietly claimed their space over the years. They had begun bearing fruit some seasons ago, but the joy of ripe guava was often stolen by bats, which descended at night, not allowing the fruits to ripen. When we relocated back home, we considered cutting them down entirely but hesitated, opting instead to trim them to about twelve feet, preserving the possibility of any future use.

The trimmed branches sprouted anew, tender shoots emerging and spreading gracefully. The tree regained its vitality, its leaves vibrant and green. Recently, this renewed space became a lively perch for jungle babblers. Their daily chatter grew, filling the courtyard with energy. The guava tree transformed from a forgotten remnant into a bustling community center, hosting these endearing birds.

Adjacent to the guava trees stood two others: one, a thorny wild tree, and the other an orange tree that had not borne fruit for years. Despite their barrenness, we decided to leave them standing, appreciating the presence of those lean trees.  

The small trees created a haven for birds, offering space for perching, chattering, and resting. A close friend suggested adding a birdbath to the area. Taking their advice, I installed one between the guava trees. At first, only a couple of hesitant crows visited. It remains empty as small birds haven’t been visiting it. Other birds, too, seem uninterested, leaving me considering whether to lower its height or replace it with a different design. 

In recent years, peacocks and peahens frequently visited our compound. Initially, their majestic presence drew admiration, but their habit of eating small seedlings tempered the excitement. In contrast, sparrows and hummingbirds brought unadulterated joy. These tiny creatures flitted gracefully, their vibrant energy captivating the heart. Yet, it was the jungle babblers that truly stole my attention. Unlike the colorful peacocks or swift hummingbirds, these plain birds offered a unique charm. Their cooperative behavior and unassuming nature spoke volumes about the beauty of unity and purpose.

This year, something remarkable happened. Observing the babblers closely, we noticed tiny fruits growing on the orange tree—a phenomenon absent for years. It was as if the birds’ vibrant activity had awakened a dormant life within the tree.

Under the warm morning sun, the Seven Sisters—as the babblers are fondly called—filled the air with their ceaseless chatter. Though small and plain in appearance, they lived vibrantly, embodying community, resilience, and divine design. Flitting between trees, hopping across the ground, and sifting through leaves, they searched diligently for food, their actions forming a symphony of intricate communication.

One day, I noticed two babblers carrying coconut coir and twigs to the guava tree. Intrigued, I watched as they meticulously wove a nest, their dedication humbling. Without guidance or blueprints, they instinctively created a safe haven for their young—a quiet reflection of the Creator’s intricate care. Their efforts were never solitary. Companions kept watch and occasionally chirped encouragement. In their world, no bird worked alone; they shared burdens, guarded each other, and collectively nurtured their young.

As days passed, I grew curious about the nest’s progress. Faint chirps eventually revealed the arrival of chicks. Unable to resist, I used a ladder to take a cautious peek. The birds became unusually noisy, chirping in alarm but refraining from attacking. Peering into the nest, I saw three motionless chicks, faking death—a survival instinct. Their shallow breathing betrayed them, their tiny bodies rising and falling gently. I quickly descended, not wanting to disturb them further.

In the days that followed, my presence near the tree heightened the babblers’ vigilance. They gathered in numbers, their chirping louder as if united in guarding their young. This sense of community was awe-inspiring, a living testament to the strength found in unity. Their actions reminded me of Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” The imagery resonated deeply, illustrating God’s protective love and care.

As weeks passed, the nest grew silent. The babblers had moved on, leaving the courtyard still and somewhat empty. The dismantled nest swayed gently in the breeze, evoking thoughts of life’s transitions—much like children leaving home. Their departure brought to mind Jesus’ assurance in Matthew 10:29: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” If God watches over these small creatures, how much more does He care for us?

A Life of Purpose and Persistence

The jungle babblers taught me lessons of resilience and purpose. Whether under the scorching sun or during the monsoon’s downpour, they tirelessly searched for sustenance, echoing Jesus’ words: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7-8). Their persistence in foraging mirrored our call to persist in seeking God’s presence and provision.

Their unity also revealed the strength of the community. If any bigger birds ventured near the guava tree, the babblers erupted in unified alarm. Together, they mobbed the predator, driving it away. It was a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity. Their shared vigilance and teamwork mirrored God’s design for human relationships. In a world where individualism often reigns, the babblers reminded me of the value of family, fellowship, and shared purpose. As the Psalmist writes, “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.” (Psalm 127:3). Just as the babblers nurture their young within a supportive community, we too are called to foster environments where love, faith, and growth thrive.

A Testament to the Creator

Weeks later, I reflected on their departure. The once-pristine nest now swayed gently in the breeze, a symbol of God's sustaining care. Their absence left a void, reminding me of the quiet stillness after children leave for school. It brought to mind Jesus’ assurance: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” (Matthew 10:29-31). If God watches over these small creatures, how much more does He care for us, His children?

The babblers were more than just birds; they were living testimonies of the Creator’s intricate design. Their unwavering diligence, trust, and unbreakable bonds were lessons to embrace in my own walk of faith. Sitting in the now-quiet courtyard, I am filled with gratitude. These humble creatures, through their daily lives, pointed me to God’s sustaining grace and purpose.

A Call to Community

The lesson of community goes beyond family alone—it extends to friends, neighbors, and the wider community, all of whom nurture and help our children grow. It's not just about our immediate family; our children need the care and tender love of the community, as designed by God. We should be thankful for every family member, friend, or community fellow who has knowingly, unknowingly, or deliberately contributed to the care, upbringing, and growth of our children, equipping them for the flight ahead. Each person who nurtures and strengthens the next generation plays a vital role in God’s plan, helping them soar in faith, love, and purpose.

May the example of the jungle babblers inspire us to live faithfully, work diligently, and rest in the assurance of God’s unfailing care. Let their story encourage us to reflect His love, seek His guidance, and cherish the beauty of life in all its forms, remembering the importance of community in our children’s lives.

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