Unimagined Actions and Reactions

Job 10:12
“Thou hast granted me life and favour, and thy visitation hath preserved my spirit.”

The latest research suggests that the tomato under attack communicates with its neighbors by releasing a chemical called methyl jasmonate. (This chemical is commonly found in perfumes.) Methyl jasmonate warns neighboring plants that hungry insects are in the neighborhood. On receiving the news, they begin producing the two chemicals that prevented you from digesting the protein in your lunch. This reaction has been seen among a number of plants, including cotton plants and various trees.

Who would ever have imagined that plants warn each other about attack? Who would have guessed that they know enough chemistry and insect biochemistry to mount such a clever defense? While even we who believe in creation are amazed, we know that the Creator can and did equip plants with these abilities.

Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, we know that life is more than just a chemical reaction. All life reflects Your care and wisdom, characteristics that cannot come from matter itself. I thank You that this is so evident. Amen.

Author: Paul A. Bartz