This week's Encouragement was submitted by: Bill & Karen McNeil

Last Sunday, Todd spoke about the sacrifice of Isaac.  When he did so, I was reminded of another part of the Abraham story that involves a tree, and since I love gardening I want to share it!


The scripture that talks about the tamarisk tree follows the story about Hagar and her son living in the desert and growing up. It involves dealings between Abraham with Abimelech, King of Gerar and Philco the commander of his forces.  It involves a disputed well at a place called Beersheba.  As I understand the passage of scripture, the treaty was made, the tree planted as a symbol of the agreement, Abraham prayed and committed the promises to God upon whom he depended and lived in Beersheba peacefully for a long time.  It was later, after Isaac had grown to be a young man, that Abraham was tested.  (not tempted for God does not tempt us-James. 1:13—Satan tempt us in order to make us fall; God tests us in order to confirm our faith).


The first photo is one of tamarisk trees in the desert, the second one is a collage of the tamarisk tree in my yard that my lawn service owner claims is the only one in Piqua and he knows of 4 in Sidney.  The left side of the collage is the older tree in the rain, the right side is the younger tree.

Blessings to all, 


 
Karen McNeil