I learned that there is this tree in the desert that takes 60 years to grow. Because it takes so long not many people plant them because they think while if I cant enjoy the shade and I have to put the work into planting it, what is the point.
The thing about this tree is it’s not planted for you, it’s planted for those who come after you like your children and grandchildren. So that they may one day have a place to rest.
I learned this when I was studying the book of numbers and also learning more about the desert and what it has to offer. I was able to connect this knowledge with my own life, when we were at the reforestation sight planting trees. I realized that we weren’t planting the trees for ourselves but rather for the community to come after us. Though It takes work, it will all be worth it in the end when others are able to enjoy the shade from the sun, or the fresh air, and the animals that begin returning to this place.
I was once explaining to someone all the good and bad things that I’ve experienced so far on the race and how some days we see really hard things and can’t do much to help. I was then asked the question “well why are you really there then?” This brought me back to that thought in the desert where your not planting the trees for your self, and realizing that non of this is about me! But rather to further the kingdom in a way that’s humble, inviting, and a place of rest from the sometimes harsh sun.
Then I had the thought of “what if I wasn’t here?” Wouldn’t the world just keep on spinning?? Then I realized that if I wasn’t here… Who would let these crazy kids play with their hair? Who would help give water to the community? Who would plants the trees in the village? Who would help the construction workers build a place for woman in the village to come and learn how to use their skills to make a living? Who would simply grab a knife, sit down, and start cutting the grass? Who would water the garden so the vegetables could grow? Who would teach the kids random fun facts? Who would hold the children’s hands that come running out of their small mud huts when we walk to the market? Who is going to tell these woman that they are strong and beautiful? Who is going to teach these men how to work and be respectful? Who would be here to show that the Lord loves them just as he has created them?
If I were to give up just because somethings were hard who would be here to show just one simple thing…Love.
If not me, then who?
