This year's theme is a natural continuation of last year's message. The good seeds that are sown in hope begin to germinate. As they grow, they become strong and fruitful trees. For these trees to stand firm and bear healthy branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit, their roots must grow deep into the soil.

When a seed first sprouts, the upper layer of the soil appears soft, pleasant, and easy to penetrate. It is exposed to gentle breezes, sunlight, and refreshing rain. However, for a tree to mature and remain steadfast, its roots must extend far beneath the surface. This is by no means an easy process. The roots must push through hard soil, rocks, and other obstacles hidden underground.

Yet these delicate roots overcome such challenges, absorb water and nutrients from deep beneath the earth, and transport them to heights of more than sixty feet, enabling the tree to flourish. If such an extraordinary engineering marvel were recognized, it would surely deserve the highest honour.

Many times I have reflected with amazement on how these tender roots are able to penetrate and even split solid rocks. Quietly and unseen, they perform their remarkable work, allowing a tree to stand strong and bear fruit for generations.

The same principle applies to the Church. Every congregation, every institution, every ministry, every leader, every minister, and every believer must be willing to go beyond challenges and difficulties, reaching deeper in search of wisdom, strength, spiritual resources, and fruitfulness. Only then can both individuals and institutions remain steadfast and continue to serve effectively for many years.