Tuesday, April 11, 2012 - Boscia albitrunca

"But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence.  They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water.  Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they go right on producing delicious fruit."  Jeremiah 17:7-8

A member of the species of tree known among botanists as boscia albitrunca was found in the Kalahari desert with roots 68 feet deep, making it the tree with the deepest roots known to date.  The tree's botanical name comes from Louis Bosc (as in "bosc" pears) and its white trunk (albino - albi trunca), but I love its common name:  the Shepherd's Tree.
    The Shepherd's Tree is native to Africa in areas where drought is common and brackish water flows through lime filled soil. Not choice circumstances for most trees, but the Shepherd's Tree digs deep to survive and to help other creatures survive in its hostile environment.  Notice the bare branches on the lower limbs.  Antelope and other tall grazers nibble away at the leaves of the Shepherd's Tree.   
   

Lord, don't give us comfortable circumstances if that means shallow roots. We want to be the trees that dig deeper and give to others from what You provide. Help us forgive us for trying to fill our own needs when You've chosen us to help fulfill the greater needs of others. May people graze on the good fruit You produce in us. Help us keep digging when we think we've hit a drought and we don't feel nourished by others.  You place each of us where we can feed and give, not fight and grumble.
In the Name of Jesus Who died on a Tree
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28,

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
1 Peter 2:9