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In the sermon "The Arborist", Dr. GreGory shared the story of the Judean date palm tree. This tree was once abundant in the Middle East 2000 years ago, but it was thought to be extinct after the Romans destroyed it in the 1st century AD. However, in 1965, archaeologists discovered a trove of seeds from the Judean date palm tree in an ancient excavation site.
A jewish woman named Sarah heard about the discovery, so she went to the archaeologists and asked for some of the seeds. The archaeologists were skeptical at first, but they eventually agreed to give Sarah some of the seeds. Sarah then enlisted the help of a professor of sustainable agriculture, and they planted the seeds on the Jewish holiday Tu B'Shvat, also known as the New Year for Trees. To everyone's surprise, the seeds sprouted and the trees began to grow again.
​ Pastor used this illustration as a reminder that just like Sarah, if we put our faith in the arborist, He will work miracles in our lives. He can reverse any situation, no matter how hopeless it may seem.
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Here are some things you can do to receive The Arborist's blessing:
Pray for a fresh start. Ask the Lord to give you a new beginning and to restore what has been lost.
Believe that He can do it. Don't give up on your dreams. The Arborist is able to do anything.
Put on the garment of praise. When you praise the Lord, you are declaring that you believe in His power to reverse extinction in your life.
Live off the oil of joy. The oil of joy is a symbol of the Lord's presence and His blessing. When you experience His joy, it will give you the strength to keep going.
If you are feeling hopeless or like your dreams are dead, be encouraged. God can reverse extinction and bring new life to your situation.
