Continually Cathy is pointing out the different trees we come across in Africa. Their assortment is so varied that I am amazed at the creativity of God. Notice this beautifully shaped tree we saw in Kruger National Park. As you can tell, trees become an important source of shade during the blistering heat of the African summer.

The Baobab tree seems odd when you first see one. It appears like an upside-down tree. A huge trunk with some thin sprinkled limbs on top seem out of place. It is the iconic “tree of life” for the continent of Africa. But, it produces the most nutrient rich fruit in the world in a very difficult dry climate.

Consider God’s interest in the garden of trees he created in Genesis chapter two. He creates the garden as a distinct place where God and man can have a close relationship. The garden was a place where God’s presence dwells in a special kind of way so that his people can be with him and worship Him.

Two of the most important spices used in the Bible are frankincense and myrrh. Frankincense is a fragrant gum resin that is ground into powder and burned to produce a balsam-like odor. Myrrh is also a resin found in various bushes.  It was used for worship in the Tabernacle and Temple over the centuries.

Had it ever occurred to you that the wise men brought remembrances of the Garden of Eden when they visited the Christ child? Gold, frankincense and myrrh were brought to the new born king! All of which were included in the Garden!

I think therefore a walk among the trees can be relaxing. It can help you feel close to God. Take time to be aware of God's presence.

May this Christmas remind you of the blessings and gifts of God. He is a sweet fragrance among us all.

Have a blessed Christmas,
Cathy and Danny Sartin
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Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved.
Spiritual Safaris are written for those who support Deeper Still Missions and its goal of missionary retention. 
Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions.

A Kingdom Leader has a unique focus during their private prayer time. They seek the will of God and His purpose for their life. They ask the Father to clarify the decisions for today.

Do you consider prayer important only when you face a crisis? When do you feel the need for prayer? Jesus seemed to value prayer above sleep. He seemed to pray before the day’s activities began as it says in Psalms 5:3. He would pray and eagerly watch for God’s answer!

Jesus would pray in solitude and seek guidance from the Father. Is this a part of your daily activities? I have even heard people say in response to a request for prayer. . . has it come to that?

Mark 1:35 (NIV84)
Jesus Prays in a Solitary Place
35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.
 
Do you understand your purpose today? Can you say no to good things to say yes to better things? Martha was doing good things. Jesus said Mary had chosen what was better! Prayer for God’s purpose can help you clarify those choices.

Let Jesus streamline your selections today! He can help simplify your cluttered calendar.

Cathy and Danny Sartin
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 The Holy Bible: New International Version. (1984). (Mk 1:35). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.
Copyright © Danny Sartin. All Rights Reserved. Photos taken by Cathy and Danny Sartin in Africa.
Kingdom Leadership is written for missionaries and ministers serving our Lord in various parts of the world.
Re-Prints: Deeper Still Missions devotionals are protected by international copyright laws. To request reprint permission contact the offices of DSM. Permission is granted and encouraged to forward this post in its entirety to others without making any changes or deletions.