Like the Redwoods

"Spiritually resilient people relate."

This was a bold-faced headline in a Lovely Branches Bible study of Daniel this past spring. The study went on to say:

"Spiritually resilient people are committed to living in community. They recognize that having others around them for support encouragement and accountability can mean the difference between life and death. For Daniel, he found this network in a small group he formed with three friends: Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. In a strange land, they had a safe haven with one another."

Taken from Pursuing Integrity: A Study of Daniel

by John Ortberg with Kevin & Sherry Harney

At the time, a friend made a comment about how redwoods grow. Most trees have a root system that grows deep and long into the earth to anchor the tree and feed it. That's not how redwoods grow. Instead, they integrate their roots with other redwoods close to the top of the earth. This integration, or intertwining, of roots helps all the redwood trees stay together and live a long and healthy life.

Her statement about the redwoods reminded me of a trip to the Muir Woods in California for our 26th wedding anniversary. As we explored the San Francisco Bay area, I had marveled at the Golden Gate Bridge. I loved the cable car rides, the twists and turns of Lombard Street and the walks along the piers.

But the Muir Woods were absolutely breathtaking. How could I not feel the hand of God in that beautiful, quiet place?

At the time of our visit, I didn't know about the redwoods' unique relationship to one another. But as I looked again at the photos I took there, I thought about how our Christian life is enriched by those around us. We find that same intertwining, integrated strength through a Christian community - whether we find it in a Bible study or a church or one-on-one with a trusted friend.

Like the redwoods, when the winds blow and the storm rage, we can "hang on" to one another if we are involved in community. In order to survive the storms of life, we need a root system anchored by our faith in God and supported by a community of other believers.

 Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12, NIV

⁹ Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: ¹⁰ If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. ¹¹ Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? ¹² Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

 It's a pretty powerful reminder about the importance of community, isn't it?

Redwoods also use light in a unique way. Redwoods look up for light and strength. And that's where I should find my strength, too - looking up to the Light of the World. It's something that's easier to do with a little help from my friends.

Maybe we all need to learn a lesson from the redwood trees. I know I do.

***

 

These flavors of summer intermingle together in very pleasing ways, too. During the dog days of August, main dish salads with grilled meats can keep your kitchen cool and your tastebuds happy. Try this Tenderloin, Cranberry and Pear Salad with grilled steak.

Or use grilled chicken with this Caribbean Salad with Honey Orange Vinaigrette.