Relating Creation Care Spiritual Practices to the Mission of God
In a world increasingly marked by environmental degradation, the Christian responsibility to care for creation has never been more urgent. Yet, for many believers, ecological stewardship remains disconnected from their spiritual lives and their understanding of the mission of God. This blog explores how creation care is not just a moral obligation but a form of worship—a spiritual discipline that deepens our connection with God as we participate in His mission. By integrating environmental stewardship into our spiritual practices, we align ourselves with the Missio Dei (the mission of God) and express our faith in tangible ways that honor both Creator and creation.
Creation Care as Worship: A Theological Foundation
The Bible begins with a resounding declaration of God’s creative power: “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). This affirmation sets the stage for a theology of creation care, where the natural world is not only a resource for human use but also a sacred testament to God’s glory. The psalmist echoes this in Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”
God’s command to humanity in Genesis 2:15—to “work and take care of” the Garden of Eden—underscores stewardship as a divine vocation. This responsibility is not about dominion in the sense of exploitation, but rather about nurturing, preserving, and tending to the earth as a form of obedience to God. When we care for creation, we participate in an act of worship that acknowledges God’s sovereignty and reflects His character.
Spiritual Formation Through Creation Care
Engaging in creation care is not merely an ethical duty; it is a means of spiritual formation. The discipline of caring for the environment cultivates virtues such as humility, patience, and gratitude. Abigail Whitehouse articulates this well: “When we choose to care for the earth and its creatures, we engage in a set of practices, habits, and priorities that slowly and subtly shape us into people more like Christ.”
Practices such as gardening, composting, and conservation require patience and attentiveness, mirroring the spiritual journey of faith. In waiting for seeds to grow, we are reminded of God’s timing and the importance of trust. In choosing sustainable habits, we cultivate gratitude for God’s provision and acknowledge our dependence on Him.
Practical Ways to Integrate Creation Care into Spiritual Life
Creation care can be woven into everyday spiritual disciplines, transforming ordinary actions into acts of worship. Here are some practical ways to incorporate environmental stewardship into personal and communal faith practices:
1. Mindful Consumption
Adopting a lifestyle of simplicity by reducing waste, using sustainable products, and consuming responsibly reflects gratitude for God’s provision. Making ethical choices about what we eat, buy, and discard demonstrates stewardship over the resources God has given us.
2. Nature Meditation and Prayer Walks
Spending intentional time in creation—whether through hiking, gardening, or sitting in stillness—helps believers connect with God. Prayer walks in nature offer a space for reflection and intercession, deepening our awareness of God’s presence in the world around us.
3. Sustainable Living as a Spiritual Discipline
Adopting eco-friendly habits such as conserving water, using energy-efficient appliances, and reducing single-use plastics can be a way of honoring God. By making intentional choices that reflect care for the earth, we align our lifestyles with biblical principles of stewardship.
4. Worship Through Creation-Related Services
Church communities can incorporate environmental themes into worship services by using creation-inspired hymns, scripture readings, and prayers. Recognizing the beauty of the natural world in corporate worship reinforces the sacredness of our stewardship role.
5. Community-Based Environmental Initiatives
Churches and faith communities can engage in activities such as tree planting, community gardening, and clean-up projects. These collective efforts not only care for the environment but also foster relationships and embody Christian service.
Overcoming Barriers to Creation Care
Despite the clear biblical mandate, some Christians hesitate to engage in environmental stewardship due to political associations or misconceptions. However, as Sandra Richter argues, “Christians are first the citizens of heaven, and therefore our alliances and our value systems are not defined by our country’s politics.”
By reframing creation care as a theological imperative rather than a political issue, believers can engage in environmental stewardship as an expression of faith rather than activism. The earth is part of God’s mission, and caring for it is a response to His love.
The Missional Aspect of Creation Care
Caring for creation aligns with the Missio Dei—the mission of God. As Peter Harris emphasizes, “Creation care is an integral part of the Christian mission,” highlighting that our stewardship reflects our relationship with God. By engaging in creation care, we participate in God’s redemptive work, bearing witness to His love for the world. Mission is not limited to evangelism alone—it is a gospel-centered witness that includes restoring broken relationships, including humanity’s relationship with the earth. When we care for creation, we embody God’s mission of reconciliation, bringing healing to both people and the planet.
Conclusion: A Call to Worship Through Stewardship
Integrating creation care into our spiritual practices enriches our worship and aligns us with God’s heart for His creation. By viewing environmental stewardship as a form of worship and a spiritual discipline, we embody our faith in ways that honor God and bless the world around us. Let us embrace this sacred responsibility, finding in the care of creation a deeper connection to the Creator and a more profound expression of our devotion.
Sources
- Whitehouse, A. (2015) “Creation Care as Spiritual Formation.” Coracle Journal. Sep 8, 2015. Inthecoracle.org
- Richter, S. (2020) Stewards of Eden: What Scripture Says About the Environment and Why It Matters. IVP Academic.
- Harris, P. “Towards a Missiology of Caring for Creation.” in Evangelical Review of Theology. (2010) 34:3, 220-232
Liezl Erlank is a dynamic professional with extensive experience and a strong educational background, particularly in the realm of missional work. Her career began with a foundation in communication and theology, earning degrees in Communication Science, Film and Visual Studies, and Practical Theology. Liezl’s missional journey is highlighted by her roles in youth ministry, leadership at a Christian radio network and a Chrisitan magazine in South Africa, where she managed operations, team leadership, online marketing, and content development. Her dedication to youth ministry, education, and Christian media underscores her passion for serving communities and spreading the Christian message. Fluent in English and Afrikaans, Liezl’s proactive mindset, leadership skills, and commitment to continuous learning have enabled her to make a significant impact in her various roles, reflecting her dedication to excellence and meaningful contribution to mission work.
