Caring for the Creation

Last night was the final meeting of the Home Group Bible study my husband I hosted at our home since September. This year's group was a different blend of people than we've had in the past. Multi-generational, a diversity of political views, a variety of interests...it made for some interesting discussions.

Of course, everyone in the group was aware of this blog and of my stand for common sense environmental issues. At tonight's gathering, which was simply a time to fellowship and share some good food, my husband and I were humbled when we were handed a gift bag from our friends.

Inside was a Plantable Greetings card from Tree-Free Greetings®. That was the first bit of awesome. Not only is the card made from earth-friendly materials, part of it is a plantable mix of wildflower seeds, which means summer after summer we will be reminded of these special people.

Inside the envelope was also a gift card to Borders. Nice.

But the best thing of all was something I'd never heard of. The Green Bible...and no it's not just one of those books specializing in a certain subject called a "bible;" it actually is the Bible. Old and New Testaments in the New Revised Standard Version. The green letter edition. Have you ever heard of the green letter edition? I hadn't. What is it exactly? It is an edition of the Bible with all environmental references (over 1,000 verses) in green. And the book itself is environmentally friendly -- recycled paper and soy-based ink. To me, this is the coolest book.


However, it apparently is causing quite a controversy in the evangelical Christian community. And that's sad. The book has many quotes from famous religious leaders in the beginning pages and there's one in particular that really speaks to my heart. It's a quote from John R.W. Stott (1921- ), Under the Bright Wings:

Did God make the world? Does he sustain it? Has he committed its resources to our care? His personal concern for his own creation should be sufficient to inspire us to be equally concerned.

For me, it's as simple as that. There's no debate. No controversy. Can a person be both a Christian and an environmentalist? The real question is: how can a person be a Christian and not be an environmentalist? Does that mean I think you have to go out and hug the closest tree? Of course not. But it does mean I think, if you're a follower of the Creator, you need to care for the Creation. Don't litter. Recycle. Don't waste. Consider eco-friendly alternatives in your household and personal care products. Forego disposables -- diapers, paper plates, styrofoam cups, etc.

Can we do it all? No. But we can do something. And that's all I'm asking. Today, make a greener choice in something you do.

My Home Group made greener choices, by buying a plantable card and The Green Bible. And that makes me very proud...and happy.

Keeping it green,

Hana