Isaiah 55:12 - Whistling Praise

Cottonwoods & Cedars at Waterman Creek

There are two places in Scripture that talk about the "trees of the forest" praising God for His justice, compassion, and salvation. Isaiah 55:12 describes it graphically: "the trees of the field will clap their hands!" (See also 1 Chronicles 16:33)

There's a particular stand of cottonwoods near Waterman Creek where I like to walk on a windy day. The shiny, leathery leaves cannot be ignored for their clapping. They crescendo with increasing wind and then decrescendo as the breeze subsides. But especially in Iowa's wind belt, their praise is unceasing.

What about cedars or pine trees? They don't "clap their needles." Those needled branches provide enough resistance to whisper or (whistle, if the wind is strong enough). They, too, offer praise to God. 

Some of us are like cottonwoods--a bit louder, a bit more noticeable. Some of us are like pine trees--a bit more subtle, a bit more subdued.

Father of all Creation,  Regardless of our temperament and our voice, use each of us in our own way to bring honor to You. In your Son's name, Amen.