Growing in RighteousnessSample

Justice: Sustainable living

Can you see Adam walking in the Garden of Eden? God places him there for a purpose, namely, "to cultivate and maintain it." To take care of it. That commission to mankind is still there today. To take care of it.

That contrasts quite well with what is going on in our world right now. Over-consuming, neglecting, depleting. And whether it's the fish in the sea, the tree felling in the tropics, or how the majority of cotton is grown. It doesn't really fit the picture of "cultivate and maintain."

But you and I can make a choice. You and I have influence. We can take a step. Sure, it will cost us something, but what would happen if all of us took some small steps? In the area of energy, for example? Or suppose we all only buy fair clothing, or second-hand? Or we just stopped eating meat for half of all meals? That would make a huge difference.

Of course, these are just examples. You can make your own interpretation in your situation, but what matters to me here is: Are you aware of the task God has given you? How do you carry it out? Are you taking time and space for that?

To think about:

• What step can you take today when it comes to taking care of the world, the area, where God has placed you?
• Often the first step is to gain insight. How can you gain insight into where you can improve?
• Who can help you?
• Who can keep you accountable?
• Can you also come up with something that is both fun to do ánd is good for those around you and the world we live in?

Prayer:

"Lord, thank You for this wonderful place we get to live in. How beautifully You have made everything. I want to worship You as Creator for that. Lord, will You help me to take care of Your creation like a good caretaker? Give me the courage to see what I can do myself, the small steps I can take and help me to do that out of a heart full of worship for the Creator - You my Master Jesus. Amen."

P.S. This is the last day of this reading plan. We hope it has helped you as a follower of Jesus and that you have enjoyed it, but, of course, there is much more to discover.

The materials in this reading plan come from Alongsiders, a European discipleship movement. Do you want to take the next step? Do you have a heart for discipleship and want to know how to really follow Jesus?

Click here for more reading plans and opportunities to grow in discipleship.