As Christians, our faith influences every aspect of our lives, guiding us in making decisions that align with our values and beliefs. Yet, there are times when we, perhaps selectively, navigate our discipleship, choosing paths that are less costly and more comfortable. This selective discipleship can often extend into how we interact with the world around us, particularly regarding environmental stewardship.
John Stott, a pivotal figure in Christian thought, expressed concern in his writings about the Church’s passive stance on environmental issues. His reflections challenge us to consider creation care not just as an environmental issue but as a fundamental element of our faith.
Why Earth Day Matters to Christians
Earth Day prompts us to reflect on the stewardship of the Earth, a responsibility bestowed upon us by God. As stated in Psalm 24:1, “The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” This verse isn’t just poetic; it’s a declaration of ownership and, consequently, our role as caretakers.
The concept of Earth Day aligns with the biblical call to stewardship. It’s a day to remember that every tree, river, and creature is part of God’s creation and that He found it all to be good. It challenges the misconception that the environment is ours to use without thought for the consequences. As stewards, our role isn’t just to use the Earth but to nurture and protect it, ensuring that its beauty and resources are available for future generations.
Addressing the Misconceptions
There’s a stereotype that caring for the planet is solely the concern of certain political or social groups. But if we view the Earth as God’s creation, shouldn’t all Christians feel compelled to look after it? This isn’t about aligning with a political ideology but fulfilling a divine command.
The idea that Earth Day, or environmental concern in general, is irrelevant to Christians because it’s “of the world” is a significant misconception. In reality, by caring for the Earth, we are worshiping God. We acknowledge His creation as worthy of respect and care, reflecting our reverence for the Creator.
Practical Steps Forward
- Embrace the Outdoors: Simply spending time in nature can deepen our appreciation for God’s creation. It allows us to see the intricacy and beauty of His work up close, compelling us to care more deeply about its preservation.
- Educate Ourselves and Others: Learning about the environmental challenges our planet faces can be overwhelming but is necessary. Understanding issues like pollution, deforestation, and climate change can spur us to take action, whether through advocacy, changes in personal consumption habits, or support of policies that protect the environment.
- Adopt Sustainable Practices: Small changes in our daily lives can make a significant impact. This can be as simple as reducing waste, recycling, using energy-efficient appliances, or supporting local and sustainable food sources. Each act of conservation is an act of stewardship.
- Integrate Creation Care into Church Life: Churches can play a crucial role by integrating creation care into their theology and practice. This might look like organizing community clean-up days, promoting recycling programs, or using church land for gardens or habitats.
A Call to Holistic Discipleship
Our engagement with the world should reflect our commitment to Jesus Christ in all areas of life. As we consider our role in creation care, let’s expand our understanding of what it means to be disciples of Christ. Earth Day serves as a reminder that our faith is connected to the physical world. We are called not just to inhabit the Earth but to ensure it thrives.
By embracing this aspect of our discipleship, we not only obey God but also contribute to a legacy of faithfulness that honors Him through the care of His creation. Let us not be selective disciples who ignore our environmental responsibilities but active stewards who cherish and protect God’s Earth.
