Dear Church Family,
Loving God’s Earth: Simple Steps for Creation Care
When I think about creation care, I often picture the small garden patch in my backyard. It started as a humble effort—just a few pots of herbs. But over the years, it has grown into a space that feeds my family, nurtures the soil, and reminds me of the interconnectedness of God’s creation. It’s not just about the plants; it’s about the way tending to the earth has shaped me spiritually and practically.
One early spring, my family decided to try something new: we committed to tending a garden bed in a local community garden. At first, it felt overwhelming—we didn’t know where to start or what to plant. But with the help of a kind, experienced gardener, we gradually filled the bed with things our family loves. As we settled into a rhythm of visiting the garden every other day to water and care for it, the simple act of nurturing those plants began to feel like an act of worship—a way to honor God’s creation and care for His earth.
By late summer and early fall, we were blessed with an abundant harvest of vibrant, healthy vegetables and fruits. But the true gift wasn’t just in the product; it was in the journey—working together as a family, connecting with nature, and witnessing firsthand the beauty of growth and renewal.
This experience taught me how even small, intentional changes can lead to meaningful outcomes. For instance, switching from paper towels to reusable cloths felt like a small step, but it reminded me that little actions, done consistently, can add up to significant impact. Similarly, thrift shopping has become a joyful habit for me—discovering treasures while reducing waste, saving money, and supporting worthy causes all at once.
One of my favorite moments came from a simple conversation with a neighbor. I shared my creation care efforts and asked what they were doing. That exchange turned into a rich sharing of ideas—from food storage tips to energy-saving window solutions. It was a reminder of how encouraging one another can multiply the impact of our efforts.
Of course, creation care isn’t just about personal choices—it’s also about systemic change. Writing to my representatives about climate action felt intimidating at first. What difference could my voice make? But I remembered that as a person of faith, my concern for the earth is rooted in God’s call to stewardship and justice. Even one sincere letter can plant seeds for change.
Looking back, I see how these steps—big and small—have deepened my connection to both God’s creation and my community. Whether it’s reducing food waste, hosting church meals with compostable tableware, or simply taking time to reflect on what more I can do, each action feels like an act of love.
Creation care is about more than just protecting the earth; it’s about honoring God, loving our neighbors, and making choices that reflect our faith. This February, I encourage you to celebrate the steps you’ve taken and consider one more. Whether it’s composting, trying shampoo bars, or advocating for creation justice, every act of care matters. Together, we can honor God’s earth and one another—one step at a time.
Three Practical Tip of the Month
·Reduce Food Waste: Learn how to properly store fruits and vegetables to extend their freshness and save money.
·Thrift and Recycle: Shop secondhand and recycle worn-out clothing to keep textiles out of landfills.
·Use Reusables: Replace paper towels with washable cloth rags or napkins to save trees and money.
Blessings,
Jinkyoung