I have such a love for trees, especially trees that have large twisting, winding trunks and intertwining branches, some dipping low creating a sculpture of foliage. Every time I see a magnificent tree, I wonder to myself, are the roots deep within the earth, or vulnerable to the chaos happening just above the surface?
I live in Charlotte, NC and what drew me to this beautiful city over 33 years ago was driving down Queens Road and looking up at the ancient oak trees lining either side of the street and down the median. After most storms you will find some of those old trees toppled over displaying a shallow or compromised root system. I think of God, the master creator, sculpting these magnificent trees, their trunks and branches artistically intertwined. When I see the wreckage of trees after the rains and winds blow through, it makes me ponder where my roots are planted when the storms of life come my way. Am I digging deep, my faith rooted and grounded in His word and His truth, trusting Him throughout all the trials and tribulations?
No matter what storm I might go through in my life, I want to be planted by streams of living water like Psalm 1:3 tells us, “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.”
I want my faith to be strong and secure in the Master Creator who has a plan for my life no matter what I might face. I want my faith to be so bold and courageous that others would be drawn to this Master Creator through the light and love deposited in me.
I know that the past week has brought devastation across our country, especially in our neighboring cities and states with the wreckage that Helene brought. It breaks my heart to see these mighty trees now splinters scattered around, homes destroyed, lives gone. My prayer for all affected by this storm is that you would cling to a GOD who will wrap his mighty loving arms around you and carry you through. My prayer is that your roots will grow deeper in faith, knowing that God will be your provider during this storm. I pray that no matter what you might be facing, you would see the love of God move in your situation!
Our hearts are with our community in the aftermath of the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. We will be donating 100% of sales of this 5x7”, “Faithful Through the Journey” print to Samaritan’s Purse, directly aiding in relief of those impacted by the storm.
