Without sap, a tree can't flourish or even exist. Vitality is essential to a Christian, as life must be infused into us by God, the Holy Spirit. We can't just call ourselves Christians; we must be filled with the Spirit's divine life.

This life is mysterious. We don't understand how the sap circulates through a tree. In us, the Holy Spirit brings about regeneration, becoming our very life. This divine life feeds upon Christ's body and blood, sustained by heavenly nourishment, beyond our explanation. The sap is a hidden marvel; roots silently draw nutrients from the soil, unseen and mysterious.

Our root is Christ Jesus, and our life is hid in Him. This is the Lord's secret. Like the sap in the cedar, the Christian's divine life is active, not always in visible fruit, but in inner workings. Our graces aren't always visible, but our life never stops beating within. We may not always be outwardly working for God, but our hearts are always resting in Him.

As sap shows itself in a tree's leaves and fruits, a healthy Christian's faith is evident in their words and actions. When you talk with them, they can't help but speak of Jesus. Their actions show they have been with Him. So much inner life fills their conduct and conversation with vibrancy.