Creation care is a term often used by environmentally-conscious Christians when referring to the God-given mandate of stewardship. Political commentary has, unfortunately, created a division that pins environmentalists as liberals—which can be a major turn-off to a large portion of evangelicals. However, if more Christians understood the importance of caring for the earth and were committed to voting with the climate in mind, necessary change could occur.
Regardless of our motives, everyone can benefit from tackling climate change. Most people enjoy nature in some capacity—whether it’s hiking, canoeing, fishing or birdwatching. Recreation is a reason to care about climate change. If not recreation, then we all at least like having clear air to breathe and clean water to drink. The fossil fuel pollution that is driving climate change is also fouling our air and water. Transitioning to clean, renewable energy will mean better health for ourselves and those we love.
As a Christian, I view nature as Creation. It was designed and formed with purpose. God delights in it—which is clear in Genesis 1, as He called it “very good.” Creation is not valuable merely because it can serve a purpose to humans, but simply because it exists. Caring about the earth is a way to thank God for what He has created, and the intrinsic value nature holds is another reason climate change needs to be addressed.
God’s creativity is exemplified in nature, and I imagine He joins us in mourning the loss of biodiversity. Many factors have contributed to biodiversity loss, including climate change, forest fires, logging, agricultural runoff, pollution, and invasive species. It’s important for us to adopt a precautionary mindset. We should do everything in our power to prevent further loss. Human health and food security are major areas that are negatively impacted by biodiversity loss. So, even if you aren’t yet convinced that caring about the earth is a form of worship, at least recognize that everyone’s well-being is at stake.
What’s more, caring for Creation is a way we can care for our neighbors, some of whom live thousands of miles away and are already bearing the brunt of climate impacts. Creation care must recognize and correct the fundamental injustice that millions of people around the world have contributed next to nothing to the problem of climate change, yet are living every day with its devastating effects.
Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, a Christian atmospheric scientist told Guernica Magazine, “For Christians, doing something about climate change is about living out our faith—caring for those who need help, our neighbors here at home or on the other side of the world, and taking responsibility for this planet that God created and entrusted to us.”
Christians could make an impact by advocating for better environmental policies. Specifically, we need to vote this year as if the climate and God’s Creation are on the ballot. And let me be clear: this is not a partisan issue. We have the opportunity to love our Creator by caring for His Creation, which includes the earth and all of its inhabitants human and otherwise. The earth is in dire need of our collective action. The science is clear, as is our calling. It’s time for Christians to take a stand for the earth.