In the aftermath of the storm we removed the limb that had been twisted and torn during the storm. We pruned the still overhanging branches that threatened to spilt the tree in half. Over time there were scars where similar efforts had been done in an effort to preserve the tree. As all Bradford pear trees tend to do it had grown way too fast to maintain the strength it needed to remain foundation-ally sound enough to support all of its outreaching branches.
I was reminded of my own life, the storms that have come, some which have left me with scars of remembrance. Scars that remind me of my dependence upon the source of my strength, the only one who can provide the rooted stability that I need to face the storms of life that come my way. The only source of strength from which my life can reach outward to those who need to see Christ in me.
“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height” Ephesians 3: 16-18
In Him I am rooted and grounded, in Him I find the strength my inner being needs to develop and grow; growth that will enable me to branch outward. Outward growth that will enable me to demonstrate to others the work that He is doing within me.
“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” Colossians 2:6-7
“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;” Colossians 1:10-11
Rooted in Him I find strength whereby I might be fruitful. I grow in the knowledge of who He is, bringing honor and glory unto Him.