January 2018


A new year is a time for new beginnings. New goals and new resolutions are in the air. Now is a great time to refocus your life and make changes for the better. It is a new opportunity for God's people to recommit to their charge of stewardship of His Creation as laid out in Genesis 1:28.

It is no secret that we have not always been kind to the planet. Despite which side of the fence you may fall on regarding global warming, mass pollution and waste are undeniable. It is easy to shift the responsibility to large corporations or government agencies. And they are in part responsible. But each one of us has a personal duty to care for Creation. One day we will give an accounting to God of our actions in the charge of every Bible command including Creation care!

Recycling your waste is not enough. Genesis 1:28 calls us to care for every living creature. Caring for the planet is caring for all living creatures including our fellow humans. We are not excused because it seems futile or inconvenient. Many environmental issues are vast and complex, but there is hope in God the sustainer of the world Colossians 1:17.

What can you do, your just one person? I'm glad you asked. Here are several opportunities. Set a New Year’s goal of starting one stewardship habit in your life. Join a Christian stewardship organization such as A Rocha or the Evangelical Environmental Network. Reduce the amount of waste in your life and save money at the same time. Adopt a pet from your local shelter and gain a companion. Visit www.epa.gov/recycle for more ideas and tips.

An article in Christianity Today reminds us, "Christians should make it clear to governments and businesses that we are willing to adapt our lifestyles and support steps towards changes that protect our environment."* There are hundreds of ways you can make a new impact this coming year. It's starts with just one.

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 By David F. Garner



Sources:
* http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2004/october/10.26.html

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