Oak tree roots in particular are unique. When all grown, the roots might be 4-7 times larger than the width of the tree. Even if there is devastation, like a fire, a new tree can sprout from the roots of the old tree. One of my favorite parts I never knew- when Oak trees are planted beside each other, their roots can merge tougher and even graph together to become an interconnected system. Stronger, more secure, supportive.
God never uses words carelessly. He said in Isaiah 61:3
“They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.”
These Oaks have much to teach us about how God views us, what He wants for us and how He wants us to live. God has given this verse to Caroline’s Promise as a focus and vision for the ministry.
We want to support the communities and people we work with to have roots that provide life and nourishment. We want to stand beside people and communities that are also filled with people supporting each other, so that we all are stronger, helping give each other. And when devastation comes, we don’t lack hope- the roots are there, and from them grows LIFE. That isn’t just for Caroline’s Promise and the communities we work in… God promises that for all of us in Jesus. Hope…life….our anchor from all that comes. When we stand beside someone, we are both stronger.
Written by Stephanie DiMora - Caroline's Promise Board of Directors