#1

In the beginning God created. . .                   In the beginning was the word. . .
Genesis 1:1                                                 The first 6 words of the Gospel
The first 5 words of the Bible                        according to John

A big first-time Hello.

Both of the verses above go on to explain Creation, what was made, how it was made and who made it.

Considering both of these Biblical accounts and many more found within the Christian operator's manual, I find it impossible to believe that God does not have an ongoing concern about his Creation.

When I consider the implications of Jesus' words found in the Gospel of John 13:34, "A new command I give to you--love one another as I have loved you, so you must love one another: by this all men will know that you are my disciples if you love one another"  it causes me to wonder what kind of love it is that far too many Christians are practicing.  Is it the kind that thinks destroying God's Creation and replacing it with creations that glorify man's dominion is acceptable?  Is it the kind of love that puts our selfish wants ahead of giving thanks for the bountiful gifts found in Creation?

Does it not make sense that if Christians truly love one another that it follows that we should give thanks and care for all the gifts that God has provided for us through his Christ and Creation; things like clean air, pure water, good soil and ample rains in season for our plants, crops and the good healthy food that is provided to us.  What about the many types of animals that give freely to us for food, relaxation and companionship.  Are these things not all important in our Christian walk and is not taking care of them showing love for one another?  Consider the wild places where God's creations tend to the needs of our soul-- places like towering cathedrals of trees that offer an opportunity for meditating on God's word; for the healing of our souls and spirits; to think about concepts like faith, trust and patience.  These wild places offer us a chance to learn about humility and about being exalted.

I have come to believe that taking care of God's Creation is a moral issue; it is a part of our Christian walk and an important way of displaying love for one another.  Offering this Christian perspective will be my mission for as long as God wills it.  It will be the focus of this blog.  My prayer is that the articles and pictures presented here will encourage people and inspire them to be part of the talk in ways that give us the opportunity to give thanks for Creation.  You are invited to join in.

Richard