Pat and I went to Taamaprathip Church this morning. It is a seven-year-old congregation meeting in a brand new church building. Like most of the church buildings in Thailand, it is not air-conditioned. A refreshing breeze flowed through the open windows. Early in the service the pastor stood to pray. As he did so, I could hear the chirping and cheeping of birds outside. The pastor began to praise God for God's greatness and glory. The birds continued to add their own unique sounds. In my mind I began to connect the beautiful bird sounds to the pastor praying. Scientists have told us the meaning of bird noises, i.e. mating calls, warning against unwanted intruders, etc. I don't imagine the birds were intentionally joining the pastor's prayer of praise, but that does not mean they did not praise God.

God is praised whenever we act according to God's will. God created birds to sing and chirp and chatter. I don't know what all the sounds mean. And perhaps the scientists don't either. Just for moment this morning I felt as though I heard, not only human praise of God, but birds rejoicing in God's gracious bounty. Then we stood and sang "How Great Thou Art"!

I thank you, God, for calling me to Thailand where I have learned from my Thai brothers and sisters how better to praise You. Help me to communicate such praise and adoration to the students I teach. In Christ's Name. Amen.