In Psalm 52 we are given an image of a green olive tree planted firmly in God, as opposed to the "mighty one" who trusts in the impermanent gains of his own cunning and effort. What does it mean for us to be planted in God? What does it mean for the Church to be planted in God. Drawing on the witness of Henry Muhlenberg (considered the "father of Lutheranism in North America"), Pastor Trent's message asks us to reflect on the practical wisdom of the psalmist and of Jesus in his words to Martha. If we are rooted in the fruits of our labor, even if they are good and holy fruits, our hope and resilience in this walk of faith will dry up as quickly as the fruit emerges. To root ourselves, however, in our God who abides with us and is abundant in grace is to root ourselves in a deeper soil that allows us to continue in good deeds even when our efforts don't amount to much.
