Once the Ténéré desert of northeastern Niger in Africa was populated by a forest of trees. As the climate changed over time and rainfall became more scarce, the number of trees dwindled. The forest of trees turned into a howling and barren desert. By the 20th century, there was one left. It sat alone in a sea of sand, surrounded by more than 200 miles of nothing but sand in all directions. For many years, people wondered how had it survived the rainless desert? In 1939, a group of soldiers dug a well nearby. As they dug deeper and deeper, they discovered how the tree had managed to survive for so many centuries – its roots stretched deep for nearly 120 feet into the underground.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Redwood trees are gigantic trees in the coastal forests of Northern California. They are some of the largest living things on earth. A redwood tree can grow to be 8-20 ft in diameter and more than 350 ft in height. How deep are its roots? Surprisingly, only five to six feet. However, they spread horizontally for as much as 100 ft, intertwining with the other redwood roots. For the wind to knock over one tree, it would have to topple them all.
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.
(Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
Both of these trees can teach us something about the nature of abiding in Christ during this trying time of coronavirus pandemic. On one hand, we must grow deeper into our relationship with Christ. We must continue to trust and depend on Him. Our roots must constantly seek the Living Water. On the other hand, more than ever we must be in fellowship, connecting our lives with other believers for support, encouragement, and strength. Our roots must intertwining with the roots of our brothers and sisters in Christ
Trusting deeply in Christ and sharing widely with other believers. These two things will help all of us to stand strong and stand tall after the devastating storm of this coronavirus pandemic.
Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. (Revelation 3:10-11)