Earth Day
Wednesday, April 22
Earth Day
Look up at the heavens; look at the earth! The heavens will disappear like smoke; the earth will wear out like old clothing, and all its people will die like flies. But the deliverance I bring will last forever; my victory will be final. Isaiah 51:6
As the world continues to live with the daily developments of the coronavirus, the pandemic is having some unexpected positive side effects. One in particular, as reported by the news, is the clear water canals and the return of sea creatures.
Venice, one of Italy’s most visited tourist attractions, which is usually heaving with visitors throughout the year is now empty. With the whole country under lockdown as coronavirus continues to spread, and locals in Venice have noticed that the water in the city’s canals has become much clearer, with small fish visible swimming around.
Today is recognized as Earth Day. A day in which we vow to take care of this earth we live in. Nature reveals to us God’s beauty, glory, power, wisdom, presence, creativity, and, most of all, his loving care. This is why we’re drawn to spend time in the beauty of nature and to enjoy animals. To talk a walk on a beautiful day, play with your dog in the grass, or hold your cat are reliable ways for many people to connect with God’s loving presence.
Today’s verse is not immediately very encouraging but, in the context of so much change going on in our planet due to lockdowns, the Bible has a very clear message: the earth is wearing out but it does so at Gods command and not through man. God has the final say.
We should of course take much better care of this precious world that God has created. Today as it is Earth Day, take a look around and enjoy it. Begin focusing on the beauty of the earth and the glory of the skies. All of this in creation comes from God. We can perhaps, in the meantime, make this planet more pleasant to live on by adopting less selfish lifestyles.
Prayer for today: Father, thank You for the world that You have made. Thank You for all that You have given me. I give you my time, talent, and treasure. I worship You in Your holiness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.