Little Trees.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

On Tuesday, August 18, 2009, a powerful storm boasting strong winds and driving rains knocked down hundreds of trees in New York City’s Central Park. With winds gusting up to 80 miles an hour, the swift storm damaged trees, knocked down electrical wires, smashed park benches and damaged cars parked in the area. While the storm destroyed towering elm trees, as I drove along the West Side Highway the next day, I noticed that all along the Hudson River small trees ranging from 2 feet to 6 feet remained undamaged. In fact, some of the trees were so recently planted they still had support wires attached. As Christians, we take comfort in knowing that in spite of the severity of the storms in our life, God can keep us from being harmed.

I was powerfully moved by seeing these small trees undamaged just yards away from towering, strong trees destroyed. It seemed logical the strong, deep roots would keep the big trees from being uprooted and the shallow roots of the new trees would provide virtually no protection. What an important message for us to learn. The strength we believe we have is no match for the all-consuming destructive power of this world. Only by the power of God and His grace are a match for the storms we face. We have no reason to boast or take comfort in any security we believe we have as Christians except getting as close to God as possible through prayer and the knowledge of God’s word. We are weak, but He is strong.

I pray that you trust God today and recognize your weaknesses.

Deacon Larry Woodard