God’s World in Our Hands

In Junior High, my science teacher showed us the TV special “Poisoning of America.” It was one of those moments when my innocent understanding of the world was turned upside down. As a parent, I would love to protect Drew and Zach from every moment like this, but they are so important as you grow into an adult. This show vividly portrayed the reality of how much trash we produce and how we are running out of space to put all our waste. Images of trash barges with no place to be go and marine life strangled by plastics will always stick in my mind. This made me sad for the world and then made me want to do something to help.

In college to become an environmental engineer, I learned the problem went beyond the U.S. My understanding of how interconnected we are on this earth becomes clearer through the years. Yet, it was not until seminary I realized the most important lesson about the environment. God cares how we treat the earth. God created the earth and everything in it for us to take care of and enjoy. God’s world is in our hands.

I wonder though: is God happy with the job we are doing? Every day more news reports tell of increased cases of respiratory issues in children, drought and famine, dangerous flooding and waterborne diseases, and animals on the verge of extinction. An increase in global temperature and pollution are linked to all of these devastating problems facing our world. God’s creation is hurting due to our choices. God’s greatest command to us is to love God and our neighbor. Our neighbors are struggling and choices we make can either help or harm them. People of faith are called to put their love of God and neighbor into action by caring for God’s world.

On May 2nd, we are having an exciting event at Platte Woods United Methodist Church. From noon to 5 p.m., we are hosting an environmental festival with practical info and fun. There will be informational and hands-on displays about Earth-friendly choices. There is so much we do every day in every way to show God we care about all He created and shares with us. Come learn about ways to love God and the environment:

• in our homes, in our yards and as we travel
• with what we eat, buy and throw away
• as active, informed voices for care of God’s world

Eco Elvis will be in the house, performing the hottest "green" tunes. We will give away reusable shopping bags, plus free trees for the first 100 to arrive. There will be an amazing Green Car Show plus activities and snacks for children of all ages. For the convenience of families with young children, free childcare will be available for children 5 and under.

Some people say the problems facing the earth are too big, but I have hope. If people of faith start praying for God’s healing for the earth and start loving God with their actions amazing things can happen. Is anybody with me???