Mike’s Musings …
A Slice of History
Among the historical artifacts in my possession is a slice of the Rathbone Elm tree that once stood on Muskingum Drive, Marietta, Ohio. History claims it was the largest elm tree in the United States, its leaves shading a circumference of some 147 feet, standing 100 feet tall, and its diameter was 44 feet across. It died from “Dutch Elm” disease, with its final exit from its 400-year stand happening in 1963. I remember it while it was alive. My dad was on the committee for Marietta’s 175th anniversary of its settlement (1788). As part of the commemoration, they compiled a scrapbook of historical accounts, adorned with a slice of the famed elm tree. Trying to find just the right “slice,” several were cut from the tree's giant branches, and Dad kept an “extra slice.” I now have that slice of history!
Granted, that means very little to most readers and has even less spiritual value. However, if mused upon as a parable of sorts, perhaps there is an application.
Consider that the famed Rathbone Elm did exist. We saw it, touched it, have pictures of it, and still have tangible evidence of it. But the original tree, even its stump, is gone. Just saying my “slice” is a part of the famed elm isn’t enough: it can be scientifically verified if necessary, and there is documentation that matches my claim in the library of Marietta College, which also owns the scrapbook mentioned. The slice on that historical item matches my slice!
Consider the Bible, the New Testament specifically. The “autographs,” as they are called (the actual handwritten documents of the apostles and other writers), no longer exist. “Manuscripts,” i.e., copies, do exist, and from these ancient documents, God has permitted the preservation of His word, translated into every known language of the earth. (Matthew 24:35; John 12:48) We have it hidden in our hearts (Colossians 3:16) that we might think and live as He thinks and lives (Colossians 3:1-17). In that sense, we each have a “slice of history” dwelling in us richly. We must value it.
Can we prove it is authentic? Certainly so! The more we study it (2 Timothy 2:15; 1 Timothy 4:15-16; et al), the more we realize there are no contradictions, and the fulfillment of every prophecy is accurately completed. Only God’s power could preserve such a treasure. (Romans 1:16-17) But we must preserve it without compromise, so its proof of authenticity is never negated! Let the evidence of its TRUTH be accessible in you by word and deed, every day of your life!
