Night Among the Giants

It should be chilly here. September is drawing to a close on this gentle night, but the summer is persisting. And the giants are speaking. I strain to hear them. Every giant has his own voice, his own personality, his own history. I think about my own journey through the wilderness, and the trees share their wisdom.

Some inconceivable injury broke this giant in half. Broken in two, it hung on, continued its life as a twin, and grew strong and tall, fed by its single root. It speaks to me of perseverance in the aftermath of some terrible accident some unexpected catastrophe. Life-changing. Scarred. Weak as a single, but strong together. 

Broken by a brutal storm, this tree fought to live. Transformed by its battle, it met and embraced its destiny as a wildlife tree where woodpeckers and nuthatches now find a home. It speaks to me of fulfilled destiny, of a new season of purpose. It's a giver of life to the precious creation.

What unthinkable accident could have caused this majestic being to grow along the ground instead of straight and tall? In childhood it grew bent and prone, as though hiding from the light. Then somehow it was transformed and began to stand and find its place among the giants. It speaks to me of transformation, of the moment when God speaks new life into a tortured beginning.

These guys declare their joy at being together, different and yet alike. They speak of community. Every individual is a precious design, loved and pleasing to its Creator.

Sitting among the giants is an experience of awe and wonder. They do not share their tortured past with me. Their whisperings are only of the glory they have found in their Creator. They speak strength, peace, sanctuary, worship. 

How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your glory!