6 Jul, 2006

Look at that Tree

One historic tree is gone, but the most famous one is not.

White House Elm Tree. June 28, 2006—An elderly White House resident is among the casualties of the massive rains that struck the mid-Atlantic U.S. this week.

A century-old elm tree planted by President Theodore Roosevelt toppled over (left) onto the curving driveway of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue on Monday, according to the Reuters news agency.

The tree, which stood near the north door to the residential part of the White House, caused no structural damage. It was removed and sent to the chipper the following day.

The north lawn of the White House and its elm trees have been featured on the reverse side of the U.S. 20-dollar bill since 1929. ~ Nancy Marion (Photo & story courtesy news.nationalgeographic.com)

Colossians 1:19-20

19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. (ESV)

Why is the cross of Christ the most famous tree ever?

Without Christ’s cross, God’s Story would not have a happy ending for us. No blood….no forgiveness. No sacrifice….no salvation. No Savior….no hope.

The old tree that fell by the White House last week was very historic and famous. It was pictured on a twenty-dollar bill. It’s gone.

The old tree that Christ died on is still a picture of life. Jesus’ blood paid the bill for our sin. His cross provides a way to God’s house.

How can you apply today’s part of God’s Story to your life?

If you have never received the gift of forgiveness made possible through Christ’s death and resurrection, tell God right now that you want Jesus to forgive you and take over your life. Let Him know that you are willing to follow Jesus and live for Him. (If this is you, contact us at the 3Story site so we can help you get started in your new relationship with God).

If you are a follower of Jesus already, grab a picture representing Christ’s cross off the internet and use it as your wallpaper for a month to remind you to reflect every day on Christ’s sacrificial love for you.

Pray right now… God, I praise you for the wonderful cross of Jesus. I don’t deserve such love and forgiveness, but your grace is so amazing! Help me not to take Christ’s cross for granted, but let your Spirit cause me to remember the most famous tree ever, every day.

How can you connect today’s story, God’s Story, and your story of faith with someone who needs Jesus?

Pray every day for the loving heart and listening ears of Jesus. Pray that Jesus will show you who to reach out to with the truth of today’s devo.

Use the story today about the White House tree to start a conversation with this friend about Christ’s “tree”.

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God's Story is brought to you by Youth for Christ. YFC works with young people on campus and in the community in over one hundred countries around the world so that they might have an opportunity to become a follower of Christ and be a part of a local church.

Our writer, Byron Emmert, has been with YFC for over 30 years and has served as Campus Life Staff, in leadership for DCLA, and as an author and speaker. Byron is available for speaking at youth or adult events and conferences. For booking, write to byron@3Story.org.

Byron and his wife Linda live in Minnesota and their family includes two married sons and daughters-in-law, a grandaughter, and a daughter in college. He loves sports, deep dish pizza, and spending time with his family.