PROTECT YOUR ROOTS

I have been blessed with the opportunity of countless outdoor experiences, which have given me lots of time to think about life and more recently, my faith. Some people look at hours in a tree stand, ground blind, or trolling in a boat as boring. That has never been the case for me; I have never regretted spending time outdoors. What comes to mind during the solitude? My wife does...a lot, our sons, the dog, family, friends, faith, and sometimes work, but not very often.

 

Spending so much time surrounded by trees or admiring them from the water recently brought a realization about how much they are an illustration of our lives. Each one is unique, like each one of us, whether it's the purpose they serve, their appearance or ability to weather a storm. For example, roots can grow in rocks, sand, and of course, well fertilized soil. In order to really grow and support the rest of the tree, they need fertile soil that nourishes their growth and adds to their strength. Roots can't grow deep or build a strong foundation in rocky soil. Roots can grow deep in sandy soil, but they can be easily pulled up when the winds are strong enough. Roots thrive in well nourished and fertile soil, growing deep and strong. When the roots are as big as the tree above ground, almost nothing can take it down. Some branches may break, limbs may twist, and leaves may blow away, but the tree will weather any storm.

 

Photo Credit: shakyphotography.com

Photo Credit: myclimatechangegarden.com

 

For us humans, if we let everything else get bigger than our roots, we are asking for trouble. When our roots, more specifically our roots of faith, are well nourished and allowed to grow and strengthen, we too can weather any storm. Spending time with God is critical to make sure our roots are strong. Allowing the right people to nourish them also strengthens them. Some of our branches may break, limbs may twist and leaves may blow away, but we'll still be standing. Imagine what life would be like if our faith was as big as everything else in life.  

 

Matthew 13: 3-9, 24-30