Three Trees and the Mystery of the Trinity
Aloha from the beautiful Hawaiian island of Kauaʻi!
During my time here, I came upon these three palm trees standing together against the backdrop
of majestic mountains. As I paused to appreciate their beauty, I found myself reflecting on one of
the great mysteries of our Christian faith—the Holy Trinity.
Three trees, each distinct in its height, shape, and character, yet standing together in remarkable
harmony. Their branches reach toward the same sky, their roots draw nourishment from the same
earth, and their leaves move together in the gentle Hawaiian trade winds. They reminded me of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three distinct persons, yet one God, united eternally in divine love.
Of course, no illustration from nature can fully explain the mystery of the Trinity. Our faith
teaches us that God is not three separate gods, but one God revealed in three persons. The Father
creates and loves, the Son reveals God's grace and redemption, and the Holy Spirit empowers
and sustains us.
What struck me most about these trees was their unity without uniformity. Each tree is
uniquely beautiful, yet together they create something even more magnificent. Perhaps there is a lesson here for our churches. We are different people, with different gifts, perspectives, and experiences. Yet, through the "that they may all be one" (John 17:21).
This November, as we enter a season of thanksgiving, may we celebrate the beauty of our
differences while remembering the divine love that unites us. Sometimes, the deepest theological truths are revealed in the simplest moments—like three palm trees swaying in the Hawaiian breeze.
Aloha and blessings,
Rev. Dr. Harry Riggs
Executive Minister
American Baptist Churches of Connecticut