Philip P. Eapen
How must Christians live out their faith in an age when governments and communities are sacrificing planet Earth on the altar of business interests?
In recent decades, the world has witnessed an alarming deterioration of the environment. This ecological crisis poses a significant threat to the well-being of present and future generations. It is characterized by deforestation, pollution, desertification, war, the loss of biodiversity, and unusual climate changes. In response to this challenge, Christians must live out their faith, embracing stewardship, compassion, and justice.
As Christians, we uphold the principle of stewardship, the conviction that God commissioned humankind to carefully manage the Earth’s resources. This concept is rooted in Genesis 1:26, where God entrusts Adam and Eve with dominion over creation. However, dominion should not be misunderstood as a right to careless exploitation; rather, it implies responsible custodianship. Christians are called to cherish and protect the natural world, recognizing its inherent value and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Furthermore, the Christian response to the ecological crisis is guided by the principle of compassion. Jesus Christ taught love and compassion for all, including the least among us. Should we limit it to fellow human beings? Might we not extend it to the entirety of creation? As such, those who bear the image of God must act as representatives of God towards other creatures. Christians are called to empathize with the suffering of the Earth and its inhabitants, both human and non-human. This compassion compels believers to take action to alleviate environmental degradation and its impact on vulnerable communities.
Integral to the Christian response to the ecological crisis is justice. Environmental degradation disproportionately affects marginalized communities, exacerbating social inequalities and perpetuating injustices. Christians are called to advocate for Environmental justice, ensuring that the burdens and benefits of environmental policies are equitably distributed. This entails solidarity with those most affected by ecological harm and addressing the root causes of environmental injustice, including systemic oppression and exploitation.
A practical Christian response to the ecological crisis involves individual and collective action. Individually, Christians can adopt environmentally sustainable lifestyles, reducing their carbon footprint and their consumption of finite resources. They can recycle and upcycle waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable agriculture. Christians can choose public transport. They could buy locally produced goods. Local architecture and locally available building materials reduce the need for heating or cooling. Additionally, Christians can engage in environmental advocacy and education, raising awareness about the ecological crisis and advocating for environmentally sustainable and just policies.
On a collective level, churches and Christian organizations can play a pivotal role in addressing the ecological crisis. By integrating environmental stewardship into their theological teachings and worship practices, churches can inspire their members to embrace a holistic understanding of faith that includes creation care. Encouraging members to carpool or take public transport to church meetings can be a good start. Furthermore, churches can collaborate with local communities, governments, and non-profit organizations to implement practical solutions to environmental challenges, such as reforestation projects, rehabilitation of water bodies, groundwater recharging projects, rainwater harvesting, clean energy initiatives, and sustainable development programs. Churches must oppose all kinds of war. War and military exercises destroy the environment faster than any other human activity.
Moreover, Christians can draw inspiration from their rich tradition of environmental stewardship. Throughout history, numerous Christian theologians, activists, and communities have advocated for environmental protection and the promotion of ecological justice. From St. Francis of Assisi’s reverence for all creation to the modern-day eco-theology movement, Christians have a wealth of resources to draw upon.
In conclusion, the ecological crisis presents a profound challenge that demands a concerted and compassionate response from all Christians. The Christian response to Ecological crisis calls for individual and collective action grounded in stewardship, compassion, and justice. By embracing their responsibility as stewards of creation, cultivating compassion for all living beings, and advocating for environmental justice, Christians can contribute to the healing and restoration of the Earth for present and future generations.
Philip Eapen, an environmental scientist by training, devoted his life to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ ever since he realized that the world needs Jesus Christ more than anyone or anything else. Apart from sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, Philip teaches Christians in order to equip them for service. He is supported by donations from readers. Philip is married to Dr. Jessimol and they are blessed with three sons and a daughter.
Date: Apr 27, 2024
