The sequoia redwoods in California are some of the largest trees in the world. They can grow over 300 feet tall with a diameter between 20 to 26 feet because of the deep moist soil. They also have the ability to tap into fog, absorbing some of its moisture through their leaves and funneling more to their roots. These trees are magnificent! The interesting thing is their roots grow only 10 to 13 feet vertically, and then spread horizontally 60 to 80 feet.
Sequoias grow very close together and their roots are all connected... they are literally holding each other up! They intertwine their roots so they can share nutrients. When one tree is lacking, the other trees supply what they need so they continue to grow, flourish, and remain through all the seasons as they encounter strong winds, earthquakes, fires, storms, and flooding. Only redwoods have the strength and ability to support other redwoods, they take care of one another.
In Colossians 2:7 Paul wrote, “Let your roots grow down into Him and draw up nourishment from Him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all He has done.”
When we allow our roots to grow deep in Jesus, we are able to weather any storm, and walk through any situation or circumstance in life knowing that Jesus walks with us, and that He’ll never leave us. Paul is bringing the church of Colossae back to the truth that they were taught. The truth of the gospel message… God’s amazing love and grace, His forgiveness of our sins, and the gift of eternal life.
Like the magnificent sequoias, Jesus shares His nutrients with us! Think about the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Jesus encompasses all of these traits and more. We each grow in these nutrients, and they sustain us in life. We, in turn, can share our nutrients with others. Think about a difficult season of life that you have walked through. Maybe you couldn’t pray for yourself because what you were experiencing was so heavy and deep; instead, you reached out to others asking for prayer. Their prayers encouraged you and reminded you of Jesus’ faithfulness in your life. You found yourself being able to pray again as you went back to your root system... Jesus.
What are you thankful for at this moment? Today, take some time to write down what Jesus has done and is currently doing in your life. Tears may flow and your heart will be full of gratitude. Let thanksgiving renew your soul and mind as you refocus your attention on faith and truth.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out!” Psalm 107:1
Each day continue to build your life on Jesus as you tap into the root system knowing that you are in Him, and He is in you.