There’s nothing better to lift my spirits than getting “out in the green.” It renews my body and spirit to breathe the fresh air and see all the wonders God has created. I feel God’s presence all around. There’s just something about mountains and trees, ferns and flowers, rock formations and waterfalls that feeds my deepest soul. And wildlife sightings are a big plus! It’s easy to worship and let the cares of life melt away.
But I’m disgusted when we find trash on the trails, and cigarette butts and drug paraphernalia littering what should be pristine “wilderness.” How hard is it to carry out your own trash and take care of the beauty of this world so others can enjoy it? Our cities and freeways are even worse—garbage is piled everywhere and floating along sidewalks, many times just a few feet away from a trash can. I can’t imagine how much it grieves our Maker.
When God created the world, it was perfect (Gen. 1:27-31). It was mankind’s job to be good stewards of the earth. But after sin entered the picture selfishness and waste took root, and continues to get worse in each generation. We need to be responsible with what we’ve been given! Yet we know from Scripture that creation will continue to spiral downward until Jesus comes again. When He takes His people home, He will create for them a new, clean world, without sin (Rev. 21:1-8).
We who believe in God and look forward to spending forever with Him groan to be released from death, sickness, and pain—the results of sin. The earth itself is groaning for release from decay and the redemption of humanity.
For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God (Rom. 8:19-21, NIV).
So how then should we live while we’re on earth? Scripture is very clear that it’s our job to take care of our current home—especially our fellow human beings—and honor God with the way we use the resources He has given us. The Bible is equally clear about the fact that this is only temporary. This world is not our home. We’re only passing through on our way to eternity. But our hope for a better world does not give us permission to neglect the one we currently live in. In fact, in light of Jesus’ sacrifice of love for us, and His promise to give us a home with Him in the future, we should be that much more willing to respect what He’s given us now. Wonder and awe for all He has made is one of our greatest acts of worship.
What can you do today to show respect and gratitude for this world and the people around you? Each small act builds upon another, and will make a difference for us all. That’s how we honor the One who created us and the Universe we live in.
This video of Phil Wickam’s “Creator” is a feast for the eyes, ears, and heart. Let’s worship together!