As we know, there has been much discussion about energy bills and the need to reduce carbon emissions. All of this is in the context of the debate about what to do to reduce the effects of climate change. We obviously don't want more storms, floods, droughts, famines and rising sea levels. But we also don't like being expensively cold, and having to pay huge sums for our travelling habits. Whatever we do, we seem to be stuck with consequences which we cannot wish away.
St. Paul reflects on the state of creation, stuck in a situation that seems hopeless. 'For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. (Romans 8.19-22)
Paul sees the troubles in creation as part and parcel with human behaviour. Put simply, nothing works perfectly, everything is flawed, and we are all caught up in the groaning of creation. We know for sure that human activity is directly responsible for chopping down rain forests and destroying habitats. The deeper truth is that our behaviour and selfishness is at the root of the problems facing the whole human community.
But there is hope, in God's plan of rescue, both for our world and for the people in it. The creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. As children of God, we can start to live the life of the future now, taking responsibility for our actions, and ready to play our part in bringing the change we wish to see in others.
Best wishes,
Richard
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