When I moved to granite-ville outside of Austin I hauled my Japanese split-leaf maple in her giant clay pot with me. The tree owns a corner of my landscaping heart. No way was I leaving her behind.

She was born and raised in Houston. Loved the humidity. Lived a sheltered life on the back porch. Attracted oooh’s and aaah’s from all the guests who came to visit.

Japanese split-leaf maples lack the genes to handle full Texas-sun. Especially Hill Country sun careening off of granite outcroppings. 

Unfortunately, my new back porch can’t handle a potted maple Miss’ size. She now lives partially under the back roofline receiving late afternoon shade only. Way too much sun for her DNA. 

I nurse her through July and August soaking her roots twice a day. She’ll arrive in October with brown-edged leaves begging for some aloe vera gel. Fall and Winter wipe her memory clean.

Not the prettiest split-leaf in Texas. But she’s mine.

Psalm 1 speaks of God’s children living like trees planted by streams of water. Water that gets them through the 100 degree days of August. Such people “…on God’s Word meditate day and night.”

God’s Word does more than remind me of God’s promises and presence. It is God’s promise and presence. It doesn’t direct me to the water. It is the water my soul needs. It’s magical that way.

You and I often find ourselves living in climates we weren’t designed for. We roast and toast unable to escape the sun no matter how hard we try. Originally shiny edges grow crisp and scrappy.

Not the prettiest people. But we’re God’s.

Spend time soaking your roots in Him today. He’ll get you through.