Scripture References:
st. = Isa. 55:12
Paraphrasing only verse 12 from Isaiah 55–a chapter rich with invitation, comfort, and wisdom–Steffi G. Rubin (b. The Bronx, NY, 1950) wrote “The Trees of the Field” in 1975. Verse 12 refers to the "going out" from Babylon, the Israelites' return from exile. More generally, and certainly as seen through New Testament eyes, the passage sings of the joy resulting from God's salvation, a joy so far-reaching that even the "trees of the field will clap their hands," and fruitful trees and bushes will grow instead of thorns and briers.
Rubin has written many songs, a number of which have been published and recorded by Jews for Jesus and its performance ensemble, the Liberated Wailing Wall. She received a B.A. degree in English from Simpson College in San Francisco, California. At one time an artist and creative director for Jews for Jesus, she has been self-employed in the graphic arts field since 1980. Rubin is also a music leader at Emmanuel Messianic Congregation and is active in Remnant, a group that sings Messianic music.
In 1985 Bert Polman (PHH 37) prepared an additional stanza based on Isaiah 55:13 to point out that the rejoicing is a testimony to the saving acts of God. This additional stanza was rejected by the copyright owners for the Psalter Hymnal, but was accepted later for publication in Songs for LiFE (1994):
The fir and cypress trees will grow instead of thorns;
the myrtle will replace the briers and nettles:
this will be a sign, a sign of God's mighty name,
that will not be destroyed. Refrain
Liturgical Use:
Festive, highly celebrative, and joyful occasions.
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook, 1988
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