Revelation 22:1-2 – Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb, in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. (NASB)

One Sunday before the service began, everyone in church was given a eucalyptus leaf. The plant was meant to represent the tree of life mentioned in today's Scripture. I thought that it made an interesting illustration, since the eucalyptus is known to treat wounds as well as relieve a variety of illnesses. It is, however, merely one of many plants used for its medicinal properties — hardly a match for the tree of life.

But then, I considered another earthly tree, the one which provided the wood for Jesus' cross. Although Scripture does not tell us what kind of tree it was, in a manner of speaking, it was a tree of life since it became the altar for Christ's sacrifice.

1 Peter 2:24 – He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. (ESV)

Hence, the cross is the perfect remedy for disease, because it has the power to cleanse us from sin, heal infirmity, and restore our relationship to the living God. Thenceforth, we will yield the fruit of His Spirit and spread healing to those around us.

Prayer: Lord, we come before Your throne of grace, placing all our sorrows, doubts, and fears upon the cross where You suffered and died a violent death for our sakes. We thank You for paying the penalty of our sins so that we may be healed. Now, according to Your Word, purge us with the hyssop of Your Holy Spirit. Give strength to our bodies and renew our minds as we look forward to the day when all sickness and death shall cease through Jesus Christ our Lord, in Whose precious name, we pray. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author:

Lori Ciccanti <dlalsina@mchsi.com>
Ocean View, Delaware, USA
Send your feedback to the author