Frustrated, But Not Forever

For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Romans 8:20-22

In Genesis 1 the vast array of animal life that God created ex nihilo was given "every green plant for food." Can you imagine? Think about that. The plant we call poison ivy was once a food source, but due to The Curse and the frustration to which creation has been subjected, the oil it secretes is a harsh irritant and is carefully (hopefully) avoided.

No wonder creation groans. Although still magnificent in beauty, it is tainted, as are we. Our own souls are poisoned by sin. But there is a balm in Gilead! The "balm" mentioned in Scripture is also known as the Balsam of Mecca, a resin that was used in perfumes and particularly in medicine, and now we see in the Scriptural balm of Gilead a picture of our Savior, who brought healing to our sinful souls.

What's more, in Revelation 22 there is a tree that was growing in Genesis 2, whose leaves will heal the nations - the tree of life! There will be restoration, the curse will be removed and the process has already begun in the lives of those who put their trust in Christ!