28th April 2025
Rooted in Christ
…For if the roots of the tree are holy, the branches will be too.
Romans 11:16 (NLT)
I bought a small plant with pink blossoms all over it, but before the blossoms could open, they dropped off one by one. My heart sank with every loss, but I soon figured out that the plant had not been properly rooted; it was sold for show, giving the appearance of an established plant, but it was only the cuttings from one. It is now slowly showing the signs of new life with each tiny new leaf; the roots are strong and healthy. I wait expectantly for the day it will once again be established enough to bloom again.
It made me think about how well rooted I am in Christ. At first, we are so excited to belong to the family of Christ that we sometimes put on a show like the blossoms on my plant that were not being fed. We can get discouraged by our lack of progress, or at what we perceive should be the blessings coming our way, such as freedom from sickness, trails, and troubles. We may be trying to establish our own righteousness instead of clinging to the righteousness of Jesus. We need to be rooted in Christ. Matthew 13:21 and Mark 4:17 mention the importance of having deep roots that will help us to withstand problems and persecutions. We are reminded in John 15 that we are just the branches that are being fed by the vine, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the one who builds our faith and feeds it. We need to remain in Christ to grow and mature.
We are blessed by the nourishment from the roots of Jesus Christ and given strength to endure whatever life throws at us. We share, as God’s people, in the nourishment provided by the Tree of Life, Christ our Lord and King. As we mature and grow under God’s direction and care, and with his help, we will one day bloom to the glory of God, a praise expressed on our thankfulness. A joy that breaks out in our response to his love.
Prayer
Merciful God, you are all that we need in this journey here on earth and all we will ever need. Your care for us is expressed mightily by all you do. Every detail is well thought out, every need provided for. Our life is in your hands, and we are grateful for your faithfulness to us. Help us to remain in your care, protect us from the evil one, and teach us to live as a testimony of your mercy and grace. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
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Study by: Anne Gillam About the author: |
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