September 22, 2009
It was a wonderful experience to have Dr. Cal DeWitt in worship yesterday. I was very inspired by his message and his joyful presence. I was deeply engaged with what he shared and am very grateful for his perspective/interpretation of the different Bible passages he offered in regards to our care of creation. His message led to a thought provoking conversation later with my husband. Rob and I have watched a number of documentaries on climate change and have read many articles on this topic (Rob has read way more than I have on this topic actually). There have been times when our 8 year old son has watched these shows as well and when he has he is deeply troubled by the news. Of course the information that is shared about climate change is deeply disturbing for all ages and it’s very hard not to feel overwhelmed by the evidence. Often there is nothing hopeful presented in these documentaries; nothing is shared about what can be done about climate change.
What my husband and I realized yesterday after Dr. DeWitt’s message was helpful for us to name. We sort of described it differently but I think the underlying thought is similar. I shared with Rob that what is often missing in the documentaries on climate change is some explanation of our unique human identity as caretakers of the earth. Rob’s take on it was that nothing is provided in these documentaries to motivate us or empower us. We both felt that Dr. DeWitt’s message yesterday was the helpful, missing ingredient.
Dr. DeWitt helped to explain who we are as children of God—not in some kind of sentimental or abstract way. But he joyfully explained our role and how we are to live on this earth and how this role is full of meaning and purpose. His sharing was fused with the good news that Christ connects all things and reconciles all things and because of this we can be filled with joy.
I find it helpful but also extremely necessary to have these kinds of teachings/discussions about our unique identity as caretakers and gardeners not only with adults but with children and youth. As a church we need to help children process the very distressing news of climate change and also share and experience with them the Christian understanding of our role as children of God and our part in serving and keeping the earth. This role is wrapped up in the good news that Christ holds all things together (Colossians 1:17). This is where hope and joy can be found.
Perhaps this is the start of an ongoing discussion we can have as a church. How can our identity as children of God empower or motivate us to help with environmental concerns? Do we ourselves claim this identity as caretakers and gardeners? How do our children process the news of climate change? And what are we sharing and/or experiencing in our faith that helps them figure out their role as caretakers? These are just a few of the questions I have…
