We have this tree in our yard.  No.  A stick.  We planted it last year with high hopes, and in a week we had 6 inches of snow. I planted it at the wrong time.  That happens.  Sometimes things do not grow.  My name is tree, but I have no green thumb.

It is time to correct the problem; to replace the dead with the living.

First, I need to dig up the old.  I call for a shovel.

“There are many shovels at your place.”
“It doesn’t matter which shovel you choose, just as long as you have a shovel.”
“All shovels are equal and they will all get you the same results.”
“I don’t believe in shovels. I used to, but I have been hurt by too many people that use shovels incorrectly.”
“You don’t need a shovel. Just use your hands.”
“The idea of a shovel is archaic and hasn’t been applicable for hundreds of years.”

I have this tree in my life. No, a stick: Dead and dry and without fruit. There is nothing I can do to make that thing grow.

It is time to correct the problem; to replace the dead with the living.

First, I need to dig up the old. I call for the cross. (Galatians 2:20)

And there is only One able to do the job. There are not many; not two – only One. Only one that died already and cleared the way for dead trees to become living trees forever. His name is Jesus. He buried my old self after hanging tree on a cross. I am a new tree.

Now I know that some do not believe in Jesus. And I know that some think there are many solutions to the problem of a dead tree, so let me invite you: Tried everything? Still not satisfied? Me too – until Jesus. That is why I smile in this world. I was dead. Now alive.

Instead of settling for this:

Insist on this: