By: HFI staff

In a world often defined by rapid change and uncertainty, Tu Bishvat offers a moment to pause and reflect on what is truly enduring: the faithfulness of God and the beauty of His creation. Known in Jewish tradition as the "New Year of the Trees," this day serves as a reminder not only of the land’s renewal but also of our responsibility to care for the earth that God has entrusted to us. More importantly, it directs our hearts to the One who causes the trees to grow and the seasons to change—our Creator, who is faithful to His promises.

As we observe this day, Israel continues to navigate the complexities of war, loss, and ongoing recovery. The land bears the scars of conflict, yet resilience shines through—in its people, in its communities, and in the ever-renewing cycles of nature. The almond trees begin to bloom, the cyclamen peek through the rocky soil, and the air carries the promise of spring—reminding us that, just as the land endures and flourishes, so too will God bring renewal to His people.

Nature itself testifies to the cycles of life—seasons of pruning, growth, and restoration. Just as trees must endure harsh winters before bearing fruit, so too do we go through seasons of trial and refinement. In times of uncertainty, when so much has been lost, we can look to the land and see both the pain and the promise it holds. The same God who restores the earth after a long, barren season is the One who restores hearts, communities, and nations.

The Bible often uses trees as metaphors for human beings. Psalm 1:3 declares, "He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season." Just as a tree needs deep roots to flourish, so too do we need to be deeply rooted in God's word to bear good fruit. Our strength and endurance come not from ourselves but from the Lord, who sustains us through every season.

Throughout history, the Jewish people have demonstrated this perseverance. The early Zionists who returned to the land of Israel saw the planting of trees as a way to restore and revitalize what had been desolate. They drained swamps, fought disease, and transformed barren landscapes into fertile fields. The Jewish National Fund played a significant role in these efforts, purchasing land and planting forests—creating a tangible sign of faith in the future. Even today, many continue the tradition of planting trees as a lasting reminder of resilience, hope, and trust in God’s provision.

These past 16 months have been filled with immense sorrow and hardship for Israel. We have seen captivity and death. Many young lives have been “cut down” in the prime of their years, defending their people and homeland. The faith of many has been shaken. In the midst of grief, there is a longing for peace, healing, and restoration.

Yet even in sorrow, hope remains. Rachel Goldberg Polin, the mother of slain hostage Hersh Goldberg Polin, expressed that despite her grief, "hope is mandatory." This echoes the truth found in Scripture—that God has not forsaken His people. He is still at work, bringing healing and redemption. The prophet Amos speaks of God's promise in Amos 9:14-15: "I will bring back my people Israel; they will rebuild the ruined cities and live in them. They will plant vineyards and drink their wine; they will make gardens and eat their fruit. I will plant Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have given them."

Every week, busloads of volunteers—retirees, students, and workers—travel to farms to lend a hand where help is needed most. In the wake of October 7, grassroots efforts have emerged to rebuild and restore what was broken. These acts of service are a testimony to the resilience, determination, and faith of a people who trust in God's promises.

As we commemorate Tu Bishvat, join us in thanking God for His faithfulness. The beauty of nature, the renewal of the land, and the hope that springs forth from every new blossom all point back to the Creator. He is our source of strength, the One who restores what is broken, and the One who ensures that in due season, we too will bear fruit. Stand strong in faith, trusting that God’s promises are unshakable.