Friday Minute: Friday Minute: Three trees bear the fruit of God's love

To complete man's journey to our heavenly home, Jesus also bore the sins and grief of all men in the depths of Gethsemane. By overcoming the effects of death and sin, Christ became the "author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him" (Hebrews 5:9).

Fruit most precious

The Garden of Eden, though idyllic, lacked the saving elements of choice, growth and the opportunity to return to our heavenly home. The Tree of Life made possible the Tree of Choice, which, in turn, required the Tree of Crucifixion.

Seeded in the Garden of Eden and blossoming at the Garden Tomb, three trees are one. Together, they bear the fruit of eternal life and happiness.

When we think of trees, may we remember the three whose fruit is the most precious of all. It is the love of God, laden with the seeds of life eternal, "that (we) might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified" (Isaiah 60:3).

William Monahan is a 1980 graduate of BYU Law School. He practices law in Gilbert, Ariz. A former Phoenix stake president, he serves on the high council for the Queen Creek Chandler Heights Stake.