DEEP ROOTS: 2020

Research shows that most trees have roots that are 2 to 4 times the surface area of the crown of the tree.  In other words the roots are much bigger than the canopy.  What is growing under ground is much bigger than what is seen above ground.

St Paul writes to the Colossians encouraging them to not be distracted, to stand firm, to grow in their spiritual disciplines and to be ‘rooted’ in Jesus. He says: 

Colossians 2:6-8

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.  See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”

In other words if we dig deep into Jesus, if we grow roots in Him we will be able to discern, survive, overcome the changing wind and tide of this world. The fruit will come if the roots are strong.

He writes: “My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” 

It is through our roots in the simple and secret place with Jesus that we will find the treasures that we so desperately need.  Simple values, simple practices provide a rule of life that is like a trellis upon which the vine grows.  2020 will be an age of enormous spiritual distraction, digital saturation and illusion vying for our attention.  It is a year to grow deep roots.