Life and Death

Life is full of opposites. Here we have a tree which has died and has fallen into the Grantham canal. But the coots don't mind the fact that it has died, they make the most of it and build their nest in the shade of one of its branches (click on the picture and it will appear full-sized).

This reminds me of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His death on the 'tree' (if I may refer to the cross in this way) may seem like a tragic loss but it actually brings life to all. 'By his wounds we are healed', say the prophet Isaiah and it's true - his dying brings us to life spiritually because we are freed from all that separates us from the love of God.

I'm sure these coots don't have a theology degree but they are wise enough to make this dead tree a place of new life.

I took this photo as I cycled to Cotgrave to a business appointment in the beautiful sunshine which we have all enjoyed recently.