It’s that time of year when observations about Earth Day grab some headline space. I do celebrate Earth Day, but even further, I celebrate that many more churches and congregations are actively caring for creation. I believe earthkeeping is an integral part our religious identity and practice.
Faithful earthkeeping flows from who we are, what we do, and how we relate to God, creation, and one another. In light of climate change alone, I’ve begun describing where we are today as our 21st-century Deuteronomy 30:19 moment. We have set before us—once again—“life and death, blessings and curses” and need now to live life in an eco-just, eco-sustainable way, for us and our descendants.
We can offer our voices, hands, and hearts to serve endangered creatures and all creation. As women, I think our potential to help to heal the world cannot be overstated. Enlightened by the Spirit, we can hear and respond to creation’s cries, as it waits with such eager longing for the revelation of the children of God. We can bear witness to God’s hope and unconditional love for the whole world.
Rise up, sisters! Our time is now, and the Holy Spirit is calling our names!
Today we remember Monica, mother of Augustine, who died in 387. This message was adapted from “Beyond Earth Day” written by Kim Winchell that first appeared in the April 2008 issue of Lutheran Woman Today (now Gather) magazine.
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