A. The Tree of Life in Eden (Genesis 2:8-9; 3:22-24)
- “The LORD God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” (Genesis 2:9)
- “After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the Tree of Life.”(Genesis 3:24)
Discussion:
- How did the Tree of Life symbolize humanity’s perfect relationship with God?
- What was lost when humanity was expelled from the garden?
Reflection: The expulsion from Eden left humanity longing for restoration and access to the Tree of Life, foreshadowing God’s plan to bring healing through Christ.
B. The Cross as the New Tree of Life (1 Peter 2:24)
“He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by His wounds you have been healed.”
Discussion:
- How does the cross fulfill the longing for restoration initiated in Eden?
- In what ways does Christ’s sacrifice heal our relationship with God and others?
Reflection: The cross transforms the curse of sin into a source of life, offering reconciliation and healing. It invites people from all nations to experience unity in Christ.
C. The Tree of Life in Revelation (Revelation 22:1-2)
“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the Tree of Life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”
Discussion:
- What does the Tree of Life symbolize in the New Creation?
- How does this vision of eternal healing and unity shape our mission as witnesses today?
Reflection: The restored Tree of Life fulfills God’s plan to reconcile all nations to Himself. Its healing leaves symbolize the peace and unity found in Christ.
Personal Application
Reflect: How has Christ’s sacrifice brought healing and reconciliation to your life?
How can you reflect God’s love and healing in your relationships and community?
Action Steps:
- Be a Peacemaker: Identify one broken relationship in your life and take a step toward reconciliation.
- Be a Witness: Share with someone how the cross has brought healing to your life.
- Celebrate Unity: Connect with someone from a different culture or background to reflect God’s kingdom vision of all nations united in worship.
Closing Prayer and Commitment
Prayer: “Lord, from Eden to Calvary to the New Creation, Your plan has always been to reconcile us to Yourself and to one another. Thank You for transforming the Tree of Life into the cross of healing and back into the Tree of eternal unity. Help me live as a witness of Your love, healing, and peace, bringing unity to those around me. Amen.”
Key Verse to Meditate On:
“The leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:2)
The Tree of Life tells the story of God’s redemptive plan: from the loss of communion in Eden, to the healing offered at Calvary, to the eternal unity in Revelation. Live as a witness to this truth, sharing Christ’s love and inviting others into the healing and unity He provides.
Rev. Dr. Yared Halche
Executive Director of Witness,
Southeastern District, LCMS