Planting Hope

Rev. Paul Yarrow - College Chaplain

Jadav Payeng is known as the Forest Man of India. He turned 550 hectares of barren land in Assam state into a lush green forest all by himself. He began planting in 1979, and it took close to 40 years for the land to turn into the thriving forest that it is today. 

 

Each day he went out and planted young trees. Year after year, sapling by sapling, he kept planting. The trees slowly grew, and many years later, the forest was reborn. Animals and birds thrived, and according to wildlife experts, the forest attracts 80% of the world's migratory birds. It is now officially called the Molai forest.

 

Little by little, Jadav has transformed the once barren landscape into a vibrant ecosystem.

 

We may never plant a forest, but each day we can plant seemingly small amounts of hope into the lives of those around us. A word of encouragement, a kind gesture, or paying someone a compliment are all simple ways that we can 'plant seeds' into the lives of others. In years to come, imagine what transformation this may bring. 

 

Where have you planted hope this week? 

 

So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it. (1 Thessalonians 5:9, The Message)