A banyan tree in paradise
stands charred with limbs outstretched
and pictures hope amid grave tragedy.
The spirit of aloha lives
in those who’ve lost their homes
and in the prayers of onlookers like me.

This banyan tree’s a metaphor
much like Christ’s parable
of one who builds their life on rock (not sand).
When trials come (and come they will)
that threaten to destroy,
a rooted life with faith will surely stand.

What stands is rooted neath the earth
where nourishment is found.
What we can’t see accounts for what is seen.
When gale-force winds and hungry flames
envelop us with fear,
what anchors us sustains our faith and dreams.

O God, please comfort those who grieve
the loss of homes and lives.
Provide them with the means to carry on.
And may the message of the tree
inspire us to see
that faith remains when what we loved is gone.