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Spirit of Justice: Living Out Creation Care This Spring
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By Bill Baxley

As the season of spring approaches, we are reminded of the beauty and renewal of God’s creation. The bursting forth of flowers, the songs of birds, and the life-giving rains all point us back to the Creator. Scripture tells us that we are not merely observers of creation, but stewards entrusted with its care. From Genesis to Romans, the Bible provides guidance for how we can actively participate in sustaining and renewing the earth.

This spring, our church is focusing on practical ways to live out creation care as an act of worship and faith. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our environment and strengthen our connection to God’s Word.

The Bible opens with God’s creation of the world and humanity’s role as its caretakers (Genesis 1:26-28). In Genesis 1:11-12, we read about God commanding the earth to bring forth vegetation, and how He declared it good. Caring for creation is not optional; it is part of our calling as Christians. When we nurture the earth, we honor God’s handiwork and ensure future generations can experience its abundance.

In Romans 8:19-21, Paul speaks of creation’s longing to be freed from decay. This passage serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences for the earth. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in ways that reflect hope, renewal, and restoration—not just for ourselves, but for all of God’s creation.

This spring, let us embrace sustainable practices that reflect our love for God and His creation. Below are practical ways you and your family can take action.

1. Planting and Growing Life

Spring is the perfect time to engage in gardening, which mirrors God’s creative work. Consider starting a:

  • Community Garden: Collaborate with neighbors or fellow church members to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers sustainably.
  • Pollinator-Friendly Garden: Plant native species that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential to the ecosystem.
  • Composting System: Reduce food waste by turning it into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Composting is a simple yet impactful way to honor God’s command to “let the earth put forth vegetation” (Genesis 1:11).

2. Conserving Water

Water is a sacred resource, as Isaiah 55:10 reminds us: “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout…” Here are a few ways to steward this gift:

  • Install rain barrels to collect and reuse rainwater for plants and landscaping.
  • Fix leaks and use water-efficient appliances to minimize waste.
  • Educate your family about small habits, like turning off the faucet while brushing teeth, to reduce water consumption.

3. Protecting Biodiversity

Psalm 104:24 celebrates the richness of life, saying, “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.” Protecting biodiversity helps preserve the beauty and balance of creation:

  • Avoid harmful pesticides and choose natural alternatives to protect beneficial insects.
  • Create a welcoming habitat for birds, butterflies, and bees by planting diverse vegetation and providing water sources.
  • Support organizations and initiatives focused on wildlife conservation.

4. Reducing Waste

Our modern lifestyles generate significant waste, much of which harms the environment. Romans 8:21 calls us to free creation from its bondage to decay, and reducing waste is a tangible way to answer this call:

  • Recycle: Ensure that paper, plastics, and metals are properly recycled.
  • Reuse: Get creative by repurposing items instead of discarding them.
  • Donate: Share clothing, furniture, or electronics you no longer need with those who can use them.
  • Commit to a plastic-free challenge by reducing single-use plastics in your daily life.

As a congregation, we can come together to make an even greater impact. Here are some initiatives we invite you to join:

Workshops on Sustainable Living

This spring, we will host workshops to educate members on sustainable practices, including composting, water conservation, and eco-friendly gardening. These workshops will provide practical skills rooted in biblical principles of stewardship.

Spring Cleanup Events

Organize or participate in a local cleanup effort to beautify parks, trails, or neighborhoods. This hands-on activity not only serves the community but also reflects our commitment to God’s creation.

Partnerships with Environmental Organizations

Consider partnering with groups like Christians Caring for Creation,  Creation Justice Ministries or GreenFaith, which offer resources and support for faith-based environmental initiatives. Working together, we can amplify our impact.

Reflecting on Creation Through Scripture

As we embrace these actions, let us also meditate on God’s Word. Here are some verses to guide your reflections this spring:

  • Genesis 1:11-12: A reminder of the beauty and goodness of God’s creation.
  • Isaiah 55:10-11: A call to recognize water as a gift that sustains life.
  • Psalm 104:24-25: A celebration of the diversity and wonder of creation.
  • Romans 8:19-21: An invitation to participate in the renewal of creation as children of God.

Spend time in prayer and reflection, asking God to reveal how you can better care for the earth in your daily life.

This spring let’s make creation care a spiritual priority. By planting gardens, conserving water, reducing waste, and protecting biodiversity, we can honor God’s creation and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

We invite every member of our congregation to take part in these efforts, whether through individual actions or church-wide initiatives. Together, let us live out our faith by caring for the earth as an act of worship, stewardship, and love.

For additional resources and inspiration, visit:

Let us celebrate this season of renewal by caring for the world God entrusted to us.