In line with the Coronavirus rules on exercising, I enjoy walking with my dog in local green spaces.  I see the majesty of God’s creation all around me, and I feel connected, spiritually, mentally and physically with it all.  I observe the birds, insects and other creatures going about their daily lives, and it fills me with peace and joy.

The blanket coverage of COVID-19 on the news can blind us to the fact that beyond the human realm of existence, other creatures exist.  Yet when we speak of the world, we often centre on ourselves as if we were the only created beings on the planet.

Evidence exists to suggest that the Coronavirus has jumped from other species to humans.  There have also been reports of animals that have the Coronavirus.  God commanded us to be mindful stewards of the planet, and we have not lived up to what God tasked humanity with.   We must take far greater care of all living things, including the planet we have been gifted with.

On a positive note environmentally speaking, the pollution levels around the world appear to have significantly dropped since the lockdown.  According to Professor Monk of Leicester University Nitrogen Dioxide (produced by cars, power plants and other industries) has considerably dropped.  This gas has been linked to exacerbating illnesses like Asthma.  Professor Monk went on to say that if we switched to a non-carbon based society, far more people around the world would be healthier.

Will our environment continue to be cleaner, not just for humans but for all species?  One can only hope that we show the care and mindfulness for our health and planet, that has been inspired by this lockdown.

Let us pray that we choose a healthy alternative to rampant pollution and consumerism.  Prior to the Coronavirus, our lives have been dominated by one gadget, screen or another.  If we return to how we lived before, then we will have learnt nothing.

Many Christians are at the forefront of bringing good things to the world while this lockdown continues.  It is important that we as a faith community continue the good works that have come from this lockdown.

Here are some biblical verses that speak about the Lord, man and the natural world:

Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth”.

Isaiah 43:20 “The wild beasts will honour me, the jackals and the ostriches, for I give them water in the wilderness”.

Psalm 24:1 “The Earth is the Lords and all that is in it, the world and those who live in it”.

Genesis 8:1 “And God remembered Noah and every living thing and all the cattle that with him in the ark”.

God bless you xxx.

 

Nick.