Defying Logic

The Gao tree, without leaves in the rainy season.

A change has started in the Sahel. The rains are diminishing and we are beginning a month (or so) of mini-hot season before the cooler weather comes (usually the hot month is October, but it is happening early and maybe longer). During this time the incredible Gao tree is yet again brought to my attention. This tree loses all of its leaves during the rainy season and now as the dry weather is coming the Gao is starting to grow leaves! Did you get that? It is totally defies logic. It amazes me.

It makes me think of our relationship with Christ. Many of you know this well, but the Gao is a great illustration and I know I can always use a reminder. When things are going well (rain in the desert!) we start to focus on many other things and forget our Source of strength, causing us to lose the evidence of new growth. As we lose our leaves and not only do we feel badly, but also others can notice.  During the harshest times (the dry season in the desert) we cannot do it on our own. We must rely on God and only then through Christ are we able to grow leaves of true love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control.

The leaves beginning to regrow now that it is getting dryer.

So as our family lives and works in Niger, feeling inadequate and confronted by new challenges each and every day, we take comfort in the fact that we can't, so Christ must, but we're his, so we look for him to show us the way. May we be as odd and amazing as Gao trees, allowing our leaves to bud and grow even in the most unusual times. May others notice and give the Source of our dry season leaves all the glory.

--La Maestra