"Facing Environmental Fears"

Today's sermon was on global warming. It seems like an odd topic to discuss in church, but it had a biblical message. Currently, I'm taking an AP Environmental Science class (ironically, the teacher goes to my church and was in the service today). I think it's fascinating to learn about real life issues and the dilemmas facing our generation. When I was eight years old, I hosted an endangered species birthday party. Let's just say I was a concerned third grader. My favorite animal was the tiger, which is endangered. I love it that God created animals, and I think it's horrible how we are killing off species just because of their fur or just for the sake of it sport. However, there is a fine line between loving animals and loving animals more than than humans.

My pastor began by briefly explaining some environmentalists views.

-"We are killing our planet."
-"We have to do whatever it takes to save it."
-"Even if people have to suffer."

Now, I think these views are slightly extreme, but some people do feel this way. They are so caught up in saving animal species and the environment, that they overlook human's needs. What would happen if, instead of being concerned about saving endangered species, we spent time saving people's lives? Don't you think we, as humans, who God put in charge of the earth, should worry about ourselves before an insects? I'm not completely against environmentalism or endangered species (I had a birthday party in honor of them, remember?). But, we should first be concerned about humans.

According to the Bible, the earth is passing away. Say what? Well, basically, there isn't anything we can do to stop the inevitable future. If you've read Revelations, you know that God after Judgment Day, He will destroy our world, and create a completely new creation! As for right now, it is slowly dying.

1 Corinthians 7:31 (NIV)

"those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away."

That may seem depressing, but it's the truth! And, it's all part of God's plan.

2 Peter 3:7 (NIV)

"By the same word the present heavens and earth are reserved for fire, being kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men."

Just like He has a plan for each and everyone of us, God has a perfect plan for the earth. And plus, He values people way more than any endangered species or animal.

Luke 12:7 (NIV)

"Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."

This is one of my favorite verses! Can you imagine God knowing the precise number of hairs on your head? What about knowing the number of hairs on all 6 or 7 billion people's heads? That's definitely too much math for me. You see, God cares about humans (His most perfect creation), way more than animals. He created us in His image!

The final words of my pastor were to enjoy the earth, but not forget to help others. We should be concerned about our neighbor and the millions of people we can impact by giving. Last week, a 7.0 earthquake struck the already poor country of Haiti. This is devastating! Think of 50,000 people who lost their lives and the rest who are hurting and hopeless. Stop crying about excessive logging or poachers and do something for people's sakes!

You must also consider future generations.

Proverbs 13:22 (NIV)

"A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children,
but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous."

It's selfish to think about the "now." The truth is, we are using too many resources. But, that doesn't mean we should just stand there. Think about your children. Your "children's children." It's not fair to act recklessly and deplete all the resources so your grandchildren don't have any. There's nothing wrong (in fact, it's wonderful) to recycle and conserve energy. After all, we in America consume the vast majority of the earth's resources. That certainly isn't keeping others in mind, as Jesus would. So pile up your recycling bins and take shorter showers, because God wants us to take care of the earth. It's His gift to us. I know I enjoy the biodiversity and aesthetic pleasure of nature! Thank you Lord for your gorgeous creation. Help us to not forget others. I pray for the victims of Haiti. That they may feel your touch and know you are with them. Help us to give to them and support their needs. Amen.

Psalm 19:1-2 (NIV)

"The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge."

-Earth picture from Google. I love the song that says God's got the world in His hands. Because He does. No matter what we go through, it's all in His hands. And part of His plan! :)

-Blog post based off of my pastor's sermon today "Facing Environmental Fears."