Sequoia Trees

At the time of his death Doug was reading the book "Fireproof Your Life - Building a Faith that Survives the Flames". I read it this summer and was intriqued by the black and white photos of and the information about the sequoia trees. I had a desire to see them in person and was able to do that last week, as this picture of me with one proves. I have learned that they can live for thousands of years despite fires because their bark is two feet thick. But they can smolder for 6-12 months. Man has learned that fires actually help the forest as it dispenses seeds into the soft ash where new trees can grow. The author relates that we all go thru trials and testing to prove our faith. Rarely, does a sequoia die from a lightning strike, it sustains damage, but the tree will heal and remain unshaken. Strong winds make tiny cuts in the bark which make it more pliable and resilient. The roots run in a network reaching more than 200 feet in width. They do not reach their height and beauty until 1,500 years and aren't old until 3,000 years. The sequoias drop their lower branches due to wind, fire, or lightning until only the strongest remain to absorb the most sun and rain. I found so many parallels between the giant Sequoias and the Christian life; especially now, as I endure the pain, wait for the healing, and watch to see what God will produce as a result of the fire. I. Cor. 15:58 " Therefore my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord." A fruitful tree doesn't just take up space; it produces something that benefits others.