Reflection: Beholding in Prayer

by Rev. Suzy Sitton, Central Queensland Presbytery Minister Supply/Deputy Chairperson.

In the bushland beside our home, where we spend time in prayer and quietness, we behold trees where the birds feed, play, and shelter their young. A lively young echidna nuzzles for ants, and wallabies feed at night on fresh green pick.

One can learn a great deal by closely observing two very different native gum trees. The one tree stands strong, straight, and useful for building and construction because its inner heartwood is firm and strong.

The other is sometimes called a widow-maker; its centre has been hollowed out over time, and limbs drop unexpectedly. Harsh weather, fungi, and termites can slowly shape it from the inside out. Yet this tree is not without value. In fact, it plays a vital role in the bush. Its hollows become homes for possums, owls, cockatoos, and many other creatures. What looks empty to us can be full of life.

In Colossions chapter 3, Paul invites us to set our minds on things above (to behold), not to escape the world but to live with a deeper focus.

Because our life is hidden with Christ, we are held in him. From that place, our perception changes, and we begin to think, choose, and live differently.

Scripture themes warn us not to judge one another by outward appearances… as though strength always looks the same, or usefulness only takes one form. God gives each of us a purpose.

We are not all the same, nor are we meant to be. Some among us are like heartwood: steady, strong, and able to bear the load. Others may feel more like a hollow tree: worn, changed, or less visible in their strength, yet full of life and able to shelter others.

We are one family, learning to belong across differences of age, gender, culture, experience, and ability.

Sometimes what looks like loss is actually making room for new life. A tree may shed old limbs, produce flowers, fruit, and seed, and then pass life on to the next generation. In the same way, God continually renews the church. What may look like decline can become a season of passing life forward.

This new way of life calls us to let go of what harms us and others - old patterns of selfishness, anger, greed, and hurtful speech - and to put on the new self, renewed in God’s image, and to live with compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, generosity and love.

As we set our minds on things above and focus on Christ’s life-giving work, we discover that what looks empty, hollow, or weakened can still be full of purpose.

Where is Christ inviting you to focus your attention?

Spend time in prayer… behold the wonder and delight of the world around you, and see as Jesus sees. Set your mind on Christ. Turn away from what distracts or worries, and turn towards what is lasting and life-giving. Towards a more peaceful way of thinking, a more loving way of living, and a more generous way of belonging. May it be so.