Earth Day

We all know I am a little bit on the moderate to liberal side when it comes to politics. One of the main reasons is I believe in helping the environment, being a good steward of the planet that God has given us. No, we cannot control the weather nor can we save it from destruction. But just as with our body, our time, etc we should be good stewards. I get a daily devotional sent to me everyday... and today's read:

"Today's Scripture
God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.-John 3:16 (TEV)

MANY read this verse and interpret it to mean "God so loved us" - people. However, the Greek word translated here as "world" means "cosmos." In other words, God loved all creation - including this planet and the entire universe - not just people.

There is much about this planet to love. I look forward to taking walks in our local park. Since each season has its own beauty, I walk year round - looking around me and thanking God for what I see, whether the trees are barren or full. Sometimes I wonder if this same beauty will be available for my grandchildren and great-grandchildren to enjoy.

As a person of faith, I am concerned about God's creation and what we are doing to it. We don't have to agree about the issue of global warming to know that we all need and want clean air, clean water, and unpolluted soil in which to grow our food. We want our grandchildren and great-grandchildren to experience the same beautiful planet we have enjoyed. Each of us can find ways to love and care for this world that God loves so much.Barbara A. Chaplin (Kansas, USA)

Prayer
Creator of the universe, help us to live in harmony with you. Help us individually to do all we can to solve environmental problems. Amen."

What struck me is how we interpret this verse. Yes, Jesus came to this Earth to save mankind. He did that by dying on the cross for our sins... and I am extremely thankful for that. But God loves not just people, but all of His creation. Elohim is one of God's names and this is the name for God as creator. He loves all of His creation, the Earth and all in it. We should be treating the Earth better... myself included. I recycle, try to minimize water usage, my use of electricity... but what else can I do? How can I lead a "greener" lifestyle (not to be trendy or anything).

Just my thoughts today. Enjoy Earth Day... and even if you aren't someone to recycle... can you do it just today? Celebrate what Elohim has created for us to enjoy!