Trees

by Macy Johnson

“Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them,

then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy.”

(Psalm 96:12 NIV) 

 

Our property is snuggled in the middle of the Oconee National Forest. When a storm blows through, we expect several limbs and possibly entire trees to be felled. My husband keeps a tree surgeon’s phone number close at hand.

 

We have a variety of trees, mainly red and white oaks, with many pines scattered here and there. Several rare trees have been discovered in our yard. Our property previously was inhabited by the Creek Nation and remained relatively untouched, except for the building of our home.

 

Jeff found a formula to calculate the age of a tree and determined that one of the largest red oaks in our yard is over two hundred years old! What stories from over the centuries it would tell if it could talk.

 

There are several trees that disturb my husband’s peace. One large cherry tree is riddled with woodpecker holes and another oak limb looms perilously above the roof of his shed. We decided to wait for God’s timing in clearing trees, even those in precarious positions.

 

Jeff called the county once to remove a damaged pine tree leaning over the road. They told us to call them when it falls, which it did. Several neighbors joined the chainsaw brigade to clear the street for cars to pass.

 

Our trees remind me of the beauty and majesty of my heavenly Father. If we chopped down trees prematurely, it might cause an ecosystem imbalance. God knows better when the trees should die and fall to make room for new growth. He calls the forest to rejoice and praise Him.

 

I will sing for joy with all the magnificent trees around me. I hope you will, too!