The other day on the radio, there was a program about trees. Now I do realize that the fact that I was listening to a radio program about trees says some things about me and about where I am in life, but we’re going to gloss over those realities for the time being.
In this program, they were talking about the science behind the changing colors of the leaves and a particular fact stood out: no one really knows why leaves turn red. The yellows and oranges are a result of pigments that are already in the leaves and become visible when the green chlorophyl is no longer present. But red is a new pigment that the leaf produces in the fall for reasons that — so far — scientists can only speculate about. Some studies suggest it might serve as a kind of sunscreen to protect the leaf in absence of the chlorophyll. Other studies suggest insects are less likely to eat leaves that are red than other colors. But at present the full picture is a mystery.
How delightful.
And how symbolic of God’s presence and activity in the world and in our lives. I see this red foliage and am constantly in awe of it, yet I have never given much thought to how it comes to be. It emerges time after time and year after year, and we see…… are wowed by it…… but are we drawn into its mystery and wonder? How much of God’s presence and activity do we likewise see time after time — sometimes equally predictably — and are pleased to see it…… thrilled even…… but never quite connect the dots back to the One who brought it about?
Maybe it seems to you like I’m stretching the analogy. Maybe I am. It can be hard to express in words that inexpressible impression that the Spirit can leave upon you. And it seems to me — looking upon the leaves, and looking around the nation — that there is Mysterious Action about us, if only we can gain eyes to see.
Remember, we’re all in this together.
Pastor Michael