October 2 – Tasmanian Fagus
Your attitude must be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Christ, though in the image of God, didn’t deem equality with God something to be clung to— but instead became completely empty and took on the image of oppressed humankind: born into the human condition, found in the likeness of a human being. (Philippians 2:5-7)
A unique tree grows in the mountains of Tasmania. The only Australian deciduous tree, known as the Fagus. As the chill of autumn whispers through its leaves, the Fagus sheds its vibrant green mantle, embracing a period of stark vulnerability and emptiness. In this act of letting go, it mirrors the profound spiritual principle embodied by Christ—the willingness to release one’s grip on divine status and fully embrace the human condition.
Just as the Fagus annually sheds its leaves, Christ chose to empty himself of divine privilege. Christ’s incarnation, born into the world as a fragile infant, demonstrates a sacred paradox: that true power lies in the embrace of vulnerability, in the willingness to let go of status and control. The Fagus teaches us that there is wisdom in yielding to the rhythms of life, in allowing ourselves to be stripped bare, trusting that new growth and transformation will emerge from our periods of emptiness. This is the path of humility and surrender that Christ modelled, a path that can lead us to a deeper connection with the Divine and with our own authentic humanity.
Reflection:
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In what areas of my life am I being called to let go, to empty myself of attachments and embrace a season of vulnerability and trust?
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How can I cultivate the same attitude as Christ, willingly releasing my grip on status and control, and embracing the sacred journey of humility and service?
Prayer:
Divine Presence, may I have the courage to follow the example of Christ and the wisdom of the Fagus, learning to let go and trust in the transformative power of emptiness. Guide me your path so that I may find my true self in service to You and all of creation.