While on a Gator Hunt

A few months ago, my husband and I decided to explore one of the state parks that is near our home. Like a child, I’ve been eager to spot alligators as we’re out and about and this park was rumored to be home to a large population of them. I was not disappointed. If you want to see a gator, just ask, because my phone is flooded with photos!

This park also has many walking trails, so we also took full advantage of those (and yes, I was more than aware of the various animals we might encounter!). While the sun was hot, we enjoyed the coolness that the canopy of trees provided. We saw damage that Hurricane Milton had left behind last year. Here in Southwest Florida, evidence of that storm is still seen in many places.

While walking along one trail, a fallen palm tree caught my attention. Not because it was dead, but because it was still alive. I stood there and stared at that tree for quite a while, as I was in awe that it was still producing green palm fronds. This was a really large palm tree laying on its side, with the root ball out of the ground. It amazed me. How could it still be alive and producing new growth?

Then scripture came to mind:

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”  John 15:5

As I looked closer at the tree, I could see that there was a small portion of the root ball still in the ground. Some of the roots were still connected to their source for life. Wow. Just enough to continue to grow.

My mind going back to the scripture, I couldn’t help but think that tree is a great example of our relationship with Christ. Through good times and bad, we need to stay connected to God. Even when we feel like we’re hanging on by a thread… we just need to stay connected. Don’t give up hope.

Jesus warned us that in this world, we will encounter troubles (John 16:33). Most of the time, we don’t see those storms heading our way. When life knocks us down, we must stay connected to Christ. He’s growing us and showing us that through our difficult days or challenging seasons, He’s preparing us for something new. Something different. Something better.

I left the park that day with a full heart. I had enjoyed watching the gators, exploring the trails, spending time with my husband, and being reminded that God loves me. I encourage you to look around your surroundings today. You’ll see evidence of God’s love for you, and it may come in places or things you don’t expect.