By: Carissa Lovvorn
We made a big decision in our house a few days ago— it’s time to finish the treehouse! For those just now joining the Lovvorn treehouse saga, I’ll provide a little summary. Last November, I sustained a serious ankle injury after one of the treehouse walls fell on me while I was on a ladder. I underwent a very complicated reconstruction and bone graft surgery with a recovery that included nine weeks of non-weight bearing orders, countless hours of physical therapy, two shots, and an immense amount of pain. Let’s just say, it’s been a life altering experience, but I am very thankful that I can walk.
Up until this past weekend, the treehouse remained untouched. Just a 2×4 frame that served as a constant reminder of a scary accident that left me permanently scarred and, in all honesty, could have killed me. On many occasions, my husband contemplated tearing the whole thing apart and forgetting the idea completely… but he didn’t.
While at Lowe’s over the weekend, I somewhat laughed at the notion that I was still in pain and slightly limping but shopping for plywood to finish the project. Then it occurred to me, this is faith in a nutshell—hurt but still striving for the end goal.
We live in a fallen world, and not one of us is immune to trials. Illness, injuries, death, financial hardships, and relationship difficulties are just a few of the issues that we’ll face during our time on Earth. The Bible mentions the concepts of suffering and persevering through pain on several occasions. Fortunately, it also talks about God’s constant presence when we go through these difficulties and the strength that we receive when we remain faithful. Take this verse for example, “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” (1 Peter 5:10 NIV).
Romans Chapter 5 contains one of my favorite verses to dwell on when faced with hardship, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:3-5).
Hope— such a comforting and reassuring word. It represents feelings of trust, confidence, and assurance that the negative things that we experience here on earth will not compare to the glory we will experience once we reach our heavenly home.
My husband made a few rules for my continued participation in the treehouse project. The main one, no ladders! I can build furniture, paint, and decorate. I look forward to the day when giggles and happiness surround the treehouse project instead of sadness, fear, and regret. After all, if faith can move mountains, it can handle this treehouse—especially if I stay on the ground.
Many blessings,
Carissa Lovvorn
June 20, 2025
