Relating Creation Care to the Mission of God in Everyday Life

As stewards of God’s creation, we are all called to integrate biblical principles of environmental stewardship into our daily lives. This commitment not only honors God but also contributes to the well-being of our communities and the planet. By translating theological principles into actionable practices, we can express our spiritual commitment through ecological engagement.

Understanding Creation Care

Creation care, or environmental stewardship, is the responsible management of the Earth’s resources, acknowledging that all creation belongs to God. The Bible emphasizes humanity’s role in caring for the environment:

• Genesis 1:28: “God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'”
• Genesis 2:15: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”

These verses highlight the biblical mandate for humans to cultivate and protect the Earth, reflecting God’s care for His creation.

But how do we do it?  Take Actionable Steps in Creation Care

It can be challenging to figure out where to even begin with something like caring for creation. The good thing is that you don’t have to reinvent the wheel!  Implementing creation care in daily life involves intentional choices across personal lifestyle, community initiatives, and institutional strategies. 

Here are actionable steps individuals can take:

• Personal Lifestyle Choices

  • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by reusing items, recycling materials, and reducing consumption.
  • Sustainable Transportation: Opt for public transport, carpooling, biking, or walking to reduce carbon emissions.
  • Energy Conservation: Use energy-efficient appliances, switch off lights when not in use, and consider renewable energy sources like solar panels.
  • Water Conservation: Fix leaks promptly, use water-saving fixtures, and collect rainwater for gardening.
  • Support Sustainable Products: Choose products with minimal environmental impact, such as those with eco-friendly certifications.
    

• Community Initiatives

  • Local Environmental Projects: Participate in or organize community clean-ups, tree planting, and conservation efforts.
  • Educational Outreach: Share knowledge about creation care with neighbors and local groups to foster a culture of environmental responsibility.
  • Support Local Agriculture: Purchase from local farmers to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.

• Institutional Strategies

  • Advocate for Policy Change: Engage with policymakers to support environmental legislation and sustainable practices.
  • Corporate Responsibility: Encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices and support those that prioritize environmental stewardship.
  • Educational Pursuits: Enroll in courses that focus on creation care to deepen understanding and equip oneself for effective action.

Missional University’s Role in Equipping Individuals

Missional University offers resources and programs to empower individuals in their creation care journey:

• Creation Care Department: The Creation Care Department of the School of Experiential Learning collaborates with the School of Ecological Mission to develop experiential learning courses, enabling students to apply their knowledge in environmental studies, ecology, global health, and more.
• Undergraduate Certificate in Creation Care & the Environment: This program combines an understanding of earth resources, environmental risks, and ecological sustainability with a theological background in creation care, preparing students to integrate faith and environmental responsibility.
• Graduate Programs: Missional University’s graduate offerings include courses that explore the intersection of faith and ecology, preparing individuals to lead with a heart for creation care in various contexts.
• Community Engagement: Through initiatives like the School of Ecological Mission, the university fosters a community committed to creation care, providing opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.

Integrating Creation Care into Daily Life

To embody creation care effectively:

• Personal Reflection: Assess your lifestyle and identify areas for improvement in environmental stewardship.
• Set Goals: Establish achievable objectives for reducing your ecological footprint.
• Continuous Learning: Engage with resources that deepen your understanding of creation care and its biblical foundations.
• Community Involvement: Join local groups or initiatives focused on environmental stewardship to collaborate and learn from others.
• Advocacy: Use your voice to support policies and practices that promote environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

Embracing creation care is a tangible expression of our faith and commitment to God’s mission. By integrating biblical principles into our daily actions, we honor God and contribute to the flourishing of His creation. Missional University stands ready to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to live out this calling in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

For more information on Missional University’s programs and resources related to creation care, visit our  website.

By actively engaging in creation care, we participate in God’s redemptive work, fostering a sustainable and harmonious relationship with the environment He entrusted to us.

Sources

• Bauckham, R. (2010) The Bible and Ecology: Rediscovering the Community of Creation. Baylor University Press. 
• Walton, J.H. (2009) The Lost World of Genesis One: Ancient Cosmology and the Origins Debate. (Volume 2) (The Lost World Series). Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic.
• Rolston, H. (1991) Environmental Ethics: Duties to and Values in the Natural World, in The Broken Circle: Ecology, Economics, Ethics. Bormann, F.H. & Kellert, S.R. Eds. Yale University Press, New Haven. ISBN 0-300-04976-5  Read it here
• McFague, S. (1993) The Body of God: An Ecological Theology. Fortress Press.

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