For the Beauty of the Earth...

In the last few days we have finally had a brief reprieve from the hot weather, and have even seen the occasional spot of rain. Not only has the excessive heat made life uncomfortable to work or study in, but it has hit vulnerable populations hardest; posing very real threats to health for many, even resulting in loss of life. It is impacting harvests and wildfires have devastated swathes of the landscape at home and abroad.

 

This can feel like a scary and bleak situation to find ourselves in. However, we do not need to lose hope. As Christians we believe that we have been given responsibility for stewardship of God's creation and, if we have responsibility, then we also have some agency.

 

We can petition large businesses, and new housing developers to exercise responsibility in their use of sustainable materials and energy efficient methods. We can insist that, as our global infrastructure develops, it does so with a warmer climate and the health of the planet in mind. We can consider how to make wise choices as individuals and as consumers. We can write to our MP and local councillors, and other powerholders, to help keep the great institutions of this city and country alert to the climate crisis and accountable for their actions. We can come together as a community to advocate for those who are most profoundly affected. And, above all, we can pray. In prayer we seek to align our will with God’s will. And, if we believe that God really does desire the flourishing of his good creation, then the power of prayer can transform hearts and minds to desire this too, and inspire us to take action to combat the inequalities exposed by climate change.