My thoughts and musings about what it means to be a Christian that cares about God, others, and the planet ...
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
State of Denial
Why is it that so many Christians believe that the Bible has nothing to say about environmental issues? I recently had a friend tell me that Jesus did not talk about environmental concerns, or caring for creation, so it just isn't important. Well, Jesus did not talk directly about abortion, cloning, stem cell research, or any of dozens of other modern issues, but few would argue that they are not important. Why do people think the Bible has to say something outright in order for it to be important to them? Isn't the Bible filled with spiritual principles that we need to apply to our more modern situations? Otherwise, how can we be relevant to our modern society? One of these principles is "love your neighbor as you love yourself" and the related Golden Rule: "do unto others as you would have them do unto you". Would you want someone to walk onto your property and start dumping their trash on your lawn? Or using your lawn as their toilet? Or blowing smoke (an air pollutant) into your house? If your answer is "NO", then why do we do it to others? Ever stopped to consider how people or wildlife are affected by the exhaust from your car, or the amount of water you use, or what you choose to eat? I know that I could do a whole lot better at considering how my actions affect others by harming their environment. The Second Commandment and the Golden Rule are just two of many spiritual principles that apply to the need for caring for creation. Spend some time reading the Bible to look for others. Then, would you join me by starting to make small changes in your lifestyle to live out the biblical principles of love, compassion, and justice for all?
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