He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
Psalm 1:3
Today would have been my parents' 40th anniversary. Though God has called them both home, I honor them this day by sharing with you one of the principles they left to my brother and I: our roots.
One of my favorite pastimes is watching the seasons change. I enjoy taking a moment each day to watch the leaves change colors, fall to the ground, and soon return to their natural beauty.
As a child I was in awe of how each season brought dramatic change for the trees – from life to death... and in my young mind, resurrection. No matter the elements around them, trees always seem to withstand and come back more beautiful than before. Of course, I often took for granted the importance of what trees provide: food, shelter, comfort, shade – mostly I just thought they were beautiful!
As I grew older, I realized that trees are also a reminder of strength and faith. As the limbs reach toward heaven, they are a symbol of praise. Moreover, the tree doesn't worry about day-to-day, because its roots are secure. Focused on its hands lifted to the heavens in praise, knowing that God will provide what it needs, to give us what we need. I believe that people are just the same. We often go through trials, storms and tribulations, but if we are rooted in Christ, through God's grace and mercy we will overcome victoriously, coming back more beautiful, wiser, loving, and knowledgeable than before.
God tells us to be like the tree, planted by the rivers of water that bring forth our fruit. We all have fruit: a word, witness, or talent from God to share with others. We are all rooted in His everlasting love that nourishes those fruits.
So let us pour into others! You never know when your sister or brother's cup may be half full. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us that "a generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." What fruit will you cheerfully and generously provide, even if it's virtually?
My Father would say, “to be a blessing to others is a present in itself. To provide a little bit of Jesus can set your cup to overflow, for a man is what his heart does…” My Mother would say, “the roots are the most important; for anything to grow and survive, the roots have to be nourished. And the first fruit that we give should always be that of God, and that's love.”
Blessings & Love,
Nacole
