Sabbath Sunday: When You’re the Purple Tree

When I first saw this picture I focused on the colorful tree on the right. It looked like one of those inspirational quotes “If you can’t stand up, stand out.”

It also reminds me of a talk I had with my oldest years ago. He is a kid with a clear sense of right and wrong. He’s deeply grieved when he sees people choose wrong, especially when it is himself. He realized the name of his school had “Christian” in it, yet he wasn’t seeing the behavior in everyone. He really struggled.I couldn’t completely remember the verse but I knew it was in 2 Timothy. I told him there’s going to be a time where he’s going to do the right thing.

And he’s going to stand alone.

All the green trees are going to follow the popular choices, the fun ones.

But him, that purple tree, is going to stand on a solid rock and proclaim truth. And even though it will feel like he’s standing alone, he won’t be.

The Lord will always be with him.

I’ve felt like that purple tree—standing out for Jesus—telling others how free it is to live for Him (not easy, free.) Guess what? I often stand alone.

I bet you’ve been there, too.

Guess what?

The Lord will always be with you.

 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. ⁴ They will reject the truth and chase after myths.

⁵ But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:3-5

 

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