Trees vs Forest
This time of year in my part of the world (New York ) the trees can be seen easier than the forest. I know the expression is “not seeing the forest for the trees” but for me it is currently seeing the trees and not the forest. As I drive I notice little patches of white and pink sprinkled amongst the brown trunks of the taller trees. The smaller trees bud and bloom sooner than their taller neighbors. It is their time to shine. When the taller trees finally burst with color the little trees will not be easily seen, they are still there but are lost amongst the many.
The expression seeing the forest for the trees is a good one. As you probably know it means to stop focusing on the details and see the entire problem, take a step back. Lately I have been pondering it in a different way. With all that this happening in the world (the forest), I think I need to focus more on the individual (the tree). I think Jesus saw the forest and the trees. Scripture tells us that Jesus spoke to the multitudes but He always touched the individual. He knew His purpose was to redeem mankind but He took the time to interact with the woman at the well, the man placed before Him and the little child in His midst to name a few.
A quote I read by Saint Augustine as become my new challenge:
“Since you cannot do good to all, you are to pay special attention to those who, by the accounts of time, or place, or circumstances, are brought into closer connection with you.”
Scripture tells us:
“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Matthew 9:35-38 NIV
What a thought provoking post Ann. I often overlook the purpose of my situation due to me only looking at what is in front of me. Seeing the whole picture can alter my thoughts and actions, if I would just try to see beyond the tree.
Thank you for the reminder to focus more on the individual. I love the quote by St. Augustine.
Thanks for sharing, Ann. I also like the Saint Augustine quote.
This also takes away the man-made pressure that we put on ourselves to do it all. If we rely on God’s direction, He will show us the individuals who require our ministry. I am so convinced that is the life-changing kind. But it took me forty years to get there.