Tree

It was beautiful in its greatness, in the length of its branches, for its roots went down to abundant waters. 8 The cedars in the garden of God could not rival it, nor the fir trees equal its boughs; neither were the plane trees like its branches; no tree in the garden of God was its equal in beauty. 9 I made it beautiful in the mass of its branches, and all the trees of Eden envied it that were in the garden of God. Ezekiel 31:7-9 (ESV)

While on sabbatical, I have been reading; Joshua, The Gospel of John, and Ezekiel. During this morning's reading of Ezekiel 31, I found myself pondering what Ezekiel was referring to during this conversation with the Pharaoh of Egypt when asked, "Who can be compared to Egypt?" "Who are you like in your greatness? (Vs. 2)"

The Pharaoh began to boast as he answered this question: "Only Assyria!" Assyria had risen to great heights. It had become a nation that many wanted to model. So when asked, the Pharaoh immediately said, "We are like the cedar of Lebanon." The cedars in Lebanon were widely known for their quality and their height. Assyria was like one of those cedars, impressive in size and expansive in growth. The illustration went on share that the tree was nurtured by many water sources, which symbolize the nations under Assyria's control that contributed to her wealth. Of course, the Pharaoh desired to be characterized just like the mighty ones. He took pride in the giving of his answer; “Only Assyria” Boasting was evident, and his desire was palatable. 

The imagery continued to describe the tree as one in which; every bird nested, and every animal gave birth among the tree's greatness. All of creation was protected by the shade of the tree. This particular cedar was identified as more significant than any other tree, including a specific tree in the Garden of Eden. The Pharaoh took pride in identifying as one like Assyria. Then a subtle, all be it blunt reminder was given in vs. 10-14. Pride and boastfulness will fall. Seeking fulfillment in temporary things will only end in loneliness, heartache, and death. 

The same tree praised for size, shade, and protection would be cut down and left to rot. The smaller nations would abandon Assyria while at the same time seek help elsewhere. The once-mighty government would now find itself at the depths of the world underneath. One that was strong was now going to become very weak. God had to teach Assyria a lesson (v. 14), "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted (Matthew 23:12)". A lesson that nations and individuals need to learn today.

What is my takeaway from the Pharaoh's response and the illustration of a great mighty tree? First, there is an innate desire to be remembered, heard, and identified as significant. In this account, the tree represents all of these things. Second, we speak up and share our opinion rather than taking the time to observe. Third, we communicate with passionate feelings rather than relying on the One that defined passion. Fourth, we strive to have a voice as respected as the mighty voices but should be ready when a "fall" does occur. However, the biggest takeaway is a reminder of rather than finding fulfillment in being like this tree (as the Pharaoh did), I need to remember as the apostle Paul concluded; I should find fulfillment in the One who 'hung upon a tree,' and offered the promise of life (Gal. 3:13-14).