INTENTIONALLY NOTICE CREATION
Photo by Boris Smokrovic on Unsplash
“The Lord God formed the man from the dust of the ground.”
Why Engage It?
This exercise helps us notice creation around us in order to focus our attention on partnering with God to care for our world. Genesis tells us we are part of the earth, and were created to care for her just as we do our own body: “God said, ‘Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground’.”
Clearly, we are meant to partner with God to maintain and care for the world we live in and to make sure it is healthy for generations to come! So how do we do that?
How to Practice It
When you’re outside, intentionally look around you. Simply try to notice the world around you – flowers and trees, birds and animals, clouds and the sky. During these times, ask God how you can partner with Him to care for Creation.
For example, you may feel called to stop using chemicals on your lawn. This will mean more physical work for you, but it will help to nourish the soil, and in turn, the plants that grow there, and the insects and animals that feed on those plants. You may hear any number of calls to care for Creation – perhaps a word from God about protecting the oceans through reduced plastic use or cleaning the air by driving less.
Maybe you will simply hear to appreciate the beauty around for the sake of beauty itself. Only you can hear what God is uniquely speaking to you. Take some time to ask and listen to Him as you learn about your role as one who “reigns” over the earth.