Finding hope with Oak Trees

Research suggests that the best antidote for burnout is Hope. Hope is a big word, a big concept - to have hope in someone, of something, or the future.  When I was reading articles, trying to understand how to heal from burnout, I asked myself where do I find hope? I was hoping in a new job, hoping for better outcomes hoping for something to change. I was placing my hope in things that I could not control. Things that were temporary. Ask I continued to read and think this line continued to pop into my head; 

Where does my hope come from? It comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth.  

What I was really thinking of was a song from my childhood Sunday morning worship by Brian Derksen who wrote a song based on Psalm 121.

I lift my eyes up  Up to the mountains  Where does my help come from?  My help comes from You  Maker of Heaven  Creator of the earth 

Oh, how I need You Lord  You are my only hope  You're my only prayer  So I will wait for You  To come and rescue me  Come and give me life

I have access to a hope that is eternal, steadfast and in control despite the chaos in my word. The problem being I was so afraid to hold onto that hope because I didn't believe that I was worthy of it. I didn't believe that I was accepted by God and could have access to that hope. Those chains that I have been bound by are starting to come free. 

So what does this have to do with oak trees? Its coming I promise. 
When I came home from Killarney I was very teary eyed over not remembering the last time I saw Oak trees. I really do love forests and the momentary escape that nature can provide - God reveals himself in such a beautiful way through creation. 

As I was driving I saw that there were new trees being planted along a road that I drive frequently. In addition to that there were Oak trees, little baby oak trees and it that moment I could thought God saying

"Here, I saw your tears of oak trees. I was always here, listening - I will give you hope - here are your oak trees" 

God was answering that question - you find hope in me - come to me and let me restore you. So I say this with full confidence, I am very grateful for oak trees.