Bible Verse: “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10 NIV
Scripture Reading: Numbers 35:33; Jeremiah 2:7; Revelation 11:8
Today, we’re discussing why not all believers are good stewards of the environment. Although there are numerous reasons, we’ll focus on three today.
The first reason is partisan politics. In today’s polarized political environment, individuals are often stereotyped as either right-wing, bible-thumping, gunslinging, cowboy capitalists or left-wing, anti-religion, anti-gun, anti-business environmentalists.[1]
As a result, many conservative Christians usually find themselves in a political camp that is seen as pro-economy and not pro-environment. Conservative politicians do a great job of drawing this dividing line in the sand. Unfortunately, conservatives around the world are starting to take the same hardline view of politics— the all-in classic “you are either with me or against me” position. Because of this, it can be challenging for conservative Christians also to be pro-environment.
The second reason, or myth, is the belief that stewarding the environment always comes at the expense of economic growth. This debate is seen frequently in Canada, where we are fighting over the oil sands and emissions quotas. Putting partisan politics aside for a moment, we must consider whether we should be concerned about how smooth the ride would be if experts tell us we are heading for a cliff. These conversations need to happen, but they do not need to be “either/or” but rather both realities together.
The final reason is due to a lack of exposure. North Americans often live sheltered lives and are unaware of what’s happening in other parts of the world, such as deforestation in Brazil or environmental destruction in Kenya. The world’s poorer countries often sacrifice their environment to provide resources to wealthier nations, and as long as North Americans are getting what we need, we are content.
However, we must take action to protect God’s Creation, even if it means sacrificing some comfort.
It all starts with education, and we will get to that tomorrow.
Prayer: Father, we know that You want hardworking men to enjoy the blessings of our labour, but if our comfort comes at the cost of Your Creation, help us take action to protect what is Yours. Amen.
Reflection: What can you do differently today to help protect God’s beautiful Creation?
[1] Taken from Munson S.J., Christ Held Hostage, The Hijacking of American Christianity, 2013, North Carolina.
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