The Family Tree

This morning I listened to another song by Matthew West, Family Tree. I've had a hard time filling out family trees, I am never sure of the names of everybody! I don't know that much about my family tree. My mother and Father were divorced before I was born.  I did not know my Father as well as I would've liked, and most of his side of the family was a mystery.
I grew up in dysfunction, lots of it.  The Family Tree song was touching to me because it was yet another reminder that God changes lives. The dysfunction does not have to be carried on to every generation. He protects and He loves.

No, this is not your legacy
This is not your destiny
Yesterday does not define you
No, this is not your legacy
This is not your meant to be
I can break the chains that bind you

I have a dream for you
It's better than where you've been
It's bigger than your imagination
You're gonna find real love
And you're gonna hold your kids
You'll change the course of generations

Cause your my child
You're my chosen
You are loved
You are loved

And I will restore all that was broken
You are loved 
You are loved

And just like the seasons change
Winter into Spring
You're bringing new life to your family tree now
Yes you are, you are.

As I watch my children, I see that God has brought so much healing and life. They are loving Jesus, and living life far more abundantly that I knew how to do growing up or when I was their age. God's healing hand has pruned my family tree and made it far more fruitful for Him.  What a blessing! He has promised to restore all that was broken, sometimes I have days that I begin to think that is not possible. But, that is part of the family tree dysfunction. To believe that God restores and redeems, is part of the healing.
New life to the family tree. Good memories laced with God's calling on all of our lives, branches that thrive because they abide in Him, this is my family tree!
Oh Sweet Jesus, Say That Again to me! Your living water is poured upon my family tree and there is life!