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Reflecting on Proverbs 3:18, photographer Frances Freyberg captures a stunning image.
Proverbs 3:18
Tree of Life
By
Frances Freyberg
Credits:
Curated by:
Spark & Echo Arts, Self-Submitted
2016
Photography
Primary Scripture
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She [wisdom] is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy is every one that retaineth her. Proverbs 3:18
While this image appears to capture multiple, intertwined trees, it is actually a single banyan tree in Lahaina, Maui. The tree was planted in 1873 to honor the 50th anniversary of the area's first Protestant mission.
Banyan trees grow from a central trunk, and as their branches spread outwards, they extend aerial roots that reach down to the ground and eventually form additional trunks to support further growth. This banyan tree, which was only eight feet tall at planting, now stands more than 60 feet tall, has 16 major trunks in addition to the original trunk, and stretches over a 200-foot area.
Similarly, true wisdom grows from a strong and central focus on God. Properly nourished, it can spread like this banyan tree, taking root in all areas of our lives, and blessing those who shelter beneath its canopy.
Spark Notes
The Artist's Reflection
About Francis Freyburg:
"Photographs have a unique ability to inspire reflection, hope and action. They hold the power to spark memories and encourage new adventures. They enable viewers to see familiar surroundings from a fresh perspective, or to explore uncharted territories for the very first time. Through my photography, I hope to educate people about our world, and to interest them in the natural beauty that surrounds us.
I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I grew to love the great outdoors. Childhood trips to exotic locations fostered an early appreciation for different places and cultures, as well as a continuing passion for travel. In 2008, I left my job in high-tech communications to travel the world for a year, taking photographs and writing about my experiences. During that time, I built an educational travel weblog (www.wheresfrances.blogspot.com) with weekly photos, as well as historical and cultural information about the countries I visited.
I specialize in portraits of people, wildlife, nature and architecture from my travels to more than 60 countries. I’m particularly drawn to scenes that express the beauty, excitement, humor and diversity of our world, whether through a brilliantly colored blossom or a poignant face in the crowd."
Frances Freyberg