Can you hear me now?

Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy, they will sing before the Lord, for He comes ... (Psalm 96:12-13)

I recently visited the southwest portion of our country and toured a couple Native American cultural centers. In addition to the many and varied displays of ancient artifacts - from pottery, baskets, artwork and explanations of historical events,  there were wisdom sayings on the walls. Most were related to the sense of community - no, more than that, everyone was to be treated as treasured family. And not only people but the whole created world was to be honored and respected.

One piece of wisdom I took home was about listening to a tree. And all that you can learn from taking the time to listen - to a tree. Weather, seasons, even about the Great Spirit - if you would but listen.

It made me think about listening to God. How many of us truly believe God speaks to us? Is it possible? Or does it seem as foreign as the notion of a tree somehow speaking to us?

Is there talking happening even as we turn our backs and walk away?

Would you like to know, are you willing to take time to hear; to be taught?

Take time to listen. And expect to hear.