THE PARABLE OF THREE TREES

Three large trees stood in a dense forest. One day they prayed, asking for what they desired to be converted into when felled.

The first tree prayed to be a beautiful palace for kings and queens, where visitors would come and gaze with awe; the second tree prayed to be a large ship that could sail the seven seas and circle the globe; the third tree wanted to stay in the forest, grow into the tallest tree there, and always point a high finger to God. One day a woodsman came and chopped down the first tree. Instead of a palace, it was made into a common stable; but a young woman with her husband found shelter there one night to give birth to the fairest baby in all creation.

Thirty years passed. The second tree was cut down and made into a small ship and was launched on the little Sea of Galilee. A tall young man stood on the deck of the small craft and told the multitude, "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)

The third tree was then chopped down. The limbs were made into a cross and beastly men pinned his shoulders down and nailed that young man to the cross But ever since,that cross has been pointing the way to God. God answers prayer in the way and time that is best for us.

"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1Thessalonians 5:18)