Tree of Life- Tile

Tree of Life

by Jack E. Dawson

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”  
Jeremiah 29:11

Tree of Life is a whimsical painting that captures the excitement of life, vision and hope born out of the tragic tornado that devastated Joplin, Missouri, on May 22, 2011. That horrific storm captured the heart and attention of the nation and was reported around the world. The tornado slide, “lemon-aide” stand and missing dog remind us of the tragedy and loss of precious lives. Since that day friends, family and neighbors have reached out to one another and thousands of volunteers have given of their time and resources to help recover loss. Many have had to learn to cope with the loss of family, jobs and the familiar surroundings of community. The children depict hopeful expectation for the future as lives are rebuilt. The old oak tree is filled with life, representing our source of restored hope that is a confident assurance of all things working together for good and better things to come. There is only one way to gain that assurance for this life and the next. The red door with a cross and question-mark handle signifies the entrance to such hope by faith in God through Christ Jesus. For a full explanation of the 37 reminders of how God can turn disaster into hope visit www.jackdawson.com.