THE WOOD WIDE WEB

Let the field exult, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy.  

Psalm 96:12

Did you know that trees can “communicate” with one another? I recently read an article in Answers Magazine titled “Talking Trees—Secrets of Plant Communication” by Tom Hennigan, which explains this fascinating process. When an animal eats a tree’s leaves, the tree can release a gas called ethylene that nearby trees “detect.” In response, those trees produce defensive chemicals that make their leaves taste unappealing. Oak and beech trees can even send electrical signals when insects attack, prompting surrounding trees to alter the taste of their leaves and drive the insects away.

Trees can also connect through their root systems, sharing resources with damaged neighbors. This remarkable network has been called the “wood wide web.” What a marvelous Creator we have!

We humans often pride ourselves on our “cutting-edge” communication technology, yet our wise Creator was far ahead of us. God designed communication as essential for the survival of plants—organisms we might not even consider “living” in the same way as animals or people. If communication is so important for plants, how much more vital is it for redeemed humans, created in the image of God?

We are blessed with the privilege of sharing our joys and burdens with fellow believers, allowing them to pray with and for us. This kind of communication—with one another and with the Lord—takes time and effort. Yet, like the trees, it protects us from the enemy and strengthens those who are hurting, whether physically or spiritually. If your church has a scheduled time of prayer, make it a priority to be there.

Ethan Kallberg