Thursdays at 2:00 pm via Zoom
February 25, March 4, March 11, March 18, and March 25
Email april@rhumc.org for Zoom Invitation
At a recent RHUMC Bible study gathering, I was startled by a photograph that one of the participants shared. It was a picture of a broom tree – a type of tree famous in the Bible for being a place of refuge for the prophet Elijah. I had never gone in search of information or photos about broom trees, and I was surprised because it did not look the way I expected it would. The tree in the photo was large. Its leafy branches spread horizontally to create a large circle of shade. It stood alone on dusty ground that, except for the tree, would have looked quite barren. Seeing the picture gave me a new perspective on the story of God caring for Elijah in the midst of Elijah’s desperate search for relief and safety.
That was the experience that made me want to pursue an exploration of trees in the Bible. The vivid specificity of the broom tree increased my appreciation of God’s generosity. What else might I learn about the relationship between God and humanity by considering the trees that populate holy scripture? What might we learn together if a group were to embark on such a study along with me? It might seem like an odd idea, but Jesus himself is reported to have said, “From the fig tree learn its lesson…” (Matthew 24:32; Mark 13:28). So, please consider this your invitation. If you would like to join a Bible Study for the season of Lent, I would enjoy your companionship in taking a closer look at a few of the trees which play notable roles or serve as important symbols in the life of faith.
The study will be held on Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. beginning on February 25 and continuing through March 25 for a total of five sessions. Please let me know that you are planning to attend (call 310-377-6771 or send email to april@rhumc.org) so I can provide you with the Zoom link.
