“They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.””
Jeremiah 17:8 NIV
We were all looking forward to the end of 2020, a most unique year for sure! Then here comes the storming of the capitol in 2021. This is just the first month of the new year and I don’t know about you, but I want to be prepared and not live in fear.
I am so grateful for the way our Pastors lead us to start off 2021. We’re being encouraged to MAKE OUR MOVE. We’re being challenged to read the word, memorize verses, strengthen our relationship with God. I appreciate the challenge because for the upcoming year(s) we need to be like a tree with deep and strong roots like the one described in Jeremiah 17.
Thinking of trees reminded me of my Christmas tree, my fake Christmas tree. I chose it because it was easier, already perfectly trimmed and fluffy. Real trees are not without flaws. Sometimes you’ll find pukas here and there where branches didn’t grow or they broke off. But the real trees had something my fake tree never had - roots. Real trees had a foundation. The fake tree looked good on the outside but it didn’t have roots and it cannot bear fruit.
Let’s take a minute to reflect on the kind of tree we are. What kind of foundation do we have? Do we have a strong foundation rooted in God’s Word so we are able to withstand challenges? Do we have our roots deep in God’s Word that allows us to bear fruit? Are we approaching each day thirsty for God so we drink from the living waters?
I’m excited to see us as a church deepen our roots and grow in our faith. I know God will use us to touch many lives and bring glory to His Name.