Imagine you're in a hot, dry desert. Only sand, stones, and hardly any plants. And then, suddenly, you see a tree. Not just any tree, but an acacia. In the Sinai Desert, you see them often. They also grow in Africa, Asia, and even Australia. On the African savannah, they're those flat-topped, wide trees you may have seen in photographs.

When the people of Israel were at Mount Sinai, God told Moses to build a special tent: the tabernacle, a place where God would dwell among His people. God said, "Use acacia wood." That wood was strong yet not too heavy, ideal to carry through the desert. Skilled craftsmen used it to make the Ark of the Covenant, the altar, the table for the bread, and much more.

What's special about acacia wood is that it's not only strong but also tough and hard to bend. It resists rot and insects, and it endures for a long time, even in harsh conditions. That reminds us of Jesus: steadfast, unshakable, pure, and untouched by evil. And just as acacia wood does not easily change shape, we too can remain firmly rooted in God's truth, unmoved by every wind of opinion or temptation, but faithful, even when life feels hot and dry.

The tabernacle was the place where God's presence was visible. The word 'tabernacle' actually means 'tent' or 'dwelling place.' Later, John wrote about Jesus: "The Word became flesh and lived among us." In the original language, it literally says, "He tabernacled among us." Just as God dwelt among His people in the tabernacle, His Spirit was in Jesus. In this way, Jesus showed everyone God's love and character.

The Bible says of Jesus: Like a root in dry ground. He was like a living tree in a hard, barren place, deeply rooted in God's Word and strong in every difficult situation.

So, if you ever see an acacia tree, think of Jesus: life, strong, steadfast, and full of shade to rest under.