Deep roots.

But let there be spaces in your togetherness and let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.—Khalil Gibran

Deep roots

We recently returned from a trip out west to Colorado, just in time for the beautiful colors of fall. We drove up over Kenosha Pass one day. The beauty of the groves of quaking aspen, golden and quivering in the cool sunshine, was absolutely breathtaking!

Did you know the quaking aspen is believe to be the largest single living organism in the world? They present as trees standing shoulder to shoulder, but in reality, these slender trees share a common root system. The same root system can connect acres of trees. This common root system ensures the strength and health of the entire grove, and is virtually indestructible. Eventually, spruce and older forests will take over as they deprive the aspen of light, but one good forest fire will bring the community back to life, and their beautiful yellow foliage will once again dominate the landscape.

So what, you ask? Well, I was struck by the way a grove of quaking aspen resembles a healthy human community. Our common experiences root us and unify us, giving us strength and power to endure life’s challenging circumstances. People of faith, especially, find comfort in the commonality of our beliefs. Things happen, some catastrophic, others more nuisances. We may quiver and quake, but together, we not only survive; we thrive. We are strengthened and grow and continue forward. Even when the noise of the world threatens to drown our voices, for over 2000 years, the message of love and hope offered in the words and life of the Christ endures.


Monday Reflect today on our statement of belief and commitment to unity in diversity printed on our bulletin cover. Give thanks for the Church in the Circle. 2 Kings 5:1-15

Tuesday Today, consider adding an extra period of prayer in your day, a morning devotional or evening time with Scripture, perhaps. Reflect on the experience. Psalm 111

Wednesday Pray today for the executive branch of our federal government, asking God’s wisdom as they lead us. Give thanks for their dedication to serve. Romans 8:26

Thursday Pray today for the hundreds of men and women who serve their states as senators and representatives, asking for wisdom and for a desire to truly represent their constituents. Philippians 4:6

Friday Today, spend time praying for the Supreme Court and their wisdom as they serve. Give thanks for their dedication. 2 Timothy 2:8-15

Saturday As the elections draw nearer, pray for discernment as you vote. Contact your local Board of Elections or League of Women Voters and ask how you can help. Jeremiah 29:4-7

Sunday Enter God’s gates with thanksgiving and God’s courts with praise (Psalm 100)! Praise God for the hands that have done so much in our community and in your life. Psalm 66:1-12


If one suffers we all suffer. Togetherness is strength. Courage. Jean-Bertrand Aristide

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