TREE OF LIFE
The Tabernacle Choir, Orchestra at Temple Square, and dancers perform Tree of Life.
ABOUT 'TREE OF LIFE'
Music: Mack Wilberg
Text: David Warner
This collaboration from 2018 between Mack Wilberg and long-time associate David Warner depicts the sacred archetype of the life-giving Tree through the cycle of all four seasons. Each of the seasonal observances for spring, summer, and autumn is followed by an “Alleluia” as an expression of gratitude. But the symbolism becomes even more profound in winter, where an invitation is offered to rest, believe in the promise of renewal, and partake of the pure white fruit of God’s love that fills the air and falls gently like snow.
Here the “Alleluia” takes over, pealing and multiplying in abundance like Christmas bells. The collective symbolism of Christ’s love, the tree, winter, and bells serves as a contemporary meditation on the eternal nature of God’s love, the primary focus of the Christmas story.
LISTEN TO THE FULL SONG
LYRICS
O Tree of Life!
When spring arises hear our voices singing— Alleluia!
Of blossoms promising the fruit we’re seeking— Alleluia!
New life in Thee we’re seeking—
Alleluia!
O Tree of Life!
When summer nourishes our life emerging— Alleluia!
And fruit is born, abundant, bright, appearing— Alleluia!
Sweet fruit of life appearing!
Alleluia!
O Tree of Life!
When autumn calls, Thine outstretched arms entreating—
Alleluia!
Bid us come forth and feast on life descending— Alleluia!
The feast of life descending!
Alleluia!
CONT...
O Tree,
When winter comes to Thee, we bend in Thee, Thou purest Tree! Resplendent Tree!
Here we rest, we rest in Thee!
O Tree of Life!
O Tree of Life!
Bearing fruit of purest white,
Of sweet, exquisite taste—
Sweet fruit that makes us whole!
In Thee made whole!
Thy feast all life restores!
The fruit of Thy pure love is our Life forever more!
Alleluia!