Brenda’s Blog – November 2, 2021
“The storms come, the wind blows, but we are protected.”
Driving through the Midwest, I passed acres of open farmland. Seeming out of place were stands of tall trees surrounding a well-hidden homestead. They are spaced too closely to be part of a landscaping plan. What purpose do these trees serve? Why would anyone plant a box of pines?
Then the wind blows and I understand. They are a wind break – they shield the house from the storms which cross the fields. They secure the structure and the family from devastating weather.
Notable are the height of the trees and the layout. They are not random, nor scrawny. No mesquite trees, or fragile dogwoods surround the homes… the owners planted stout, robust hardwoods and pines. They were spaced “shoulder to shoulder” almost like an army of soldiers with their shields connected one to another.
Clearly they were planted generations ago. Their legacy stands as a lesson in preparation, protection, and provision. During each storm the current owners appreciate the foresight and gift of forefathers who probably dug holes by hand to guard against the storms.
What are you doing right now to create a wind shield for those coming behind? And how are you bolstering your own wall of strength to withstand your storms of daily living? Think of the wind shields you build into your life… faith, family relationships, friends, and financial savings.
When I turned 30 my Dad sent me a short note with these words attached to an article on the third decade: “thankful you have an anchor that holds.” The author described the changes in the thirties as rocky and turbulent – stormy times. Dad knew my anchor was Jesus Christ. He also knew I had a wind break built around my life which would hold against the gales.