Bow Down to Mother Earth

The environmentalists proclaim Mother Earth is a living being. Ok, not really. By definition Earth is a planet, it does not own an identity or form relationships. It is not a being, it is a thing. A wonderful thing, but still not on the plane of humanity. Firstly, Mother Earth stems from a belief rooted in Pantheism and a glofication of earth. Secondly, the description of Mother attached to earth connotates familiarity and humanity to earth when obviously, the earth is not human. The basic tenets of environmentalism- conservation, ecological responsiblity, and the gift of nature remain consistently true. However, environmentalists reordering of the natural hierarchy of man and earth is a violation of God's plan. Instead, a theocentric approach to nature produces rejoicing in the person of God and the gift of nature.

Environmentalism seeks to promote the rights of nature above the rights of man. This stems from witnessing man's destructive behavior and carelessness. However, instead of uplifting earth to godhood- Christianity imparts a practical and realistic approach to nature. In particular, Christianity is at odds with the tenets of radical environmentalism and argues directly against its beliefs. To begin, Christianity believes that population growth is biblically ordained and that man is created in the image of God and inherently possesses value. Therefore, nature is not innately better or equal to humanity. Even more so, we treat nature as a resource and animals and food. This does not mean the acceptability of crue treatment and misuse of these resources. Merely, a benefit of God's favor. As the natural guardians of earth, man must watch over and care for nature and thus comprehend the value and goodness of nature. Christians present a conservative approach to dealing with and respecting the environment. Thus, Christianity is opposed to radical environmentalism, but maintains an understanding of the importance of nature.

To clarify the Christian perspective, God commanded that we be stewards of his creation and as such, we must fulfill certain roles. As stewards of earth, we must respect nature and attempt to restore its beauty, wholeness, and productivity. Nautre should be respected and viewed as integral to the a well balanced lifestyle and the duties of a steward of God. We must appreciate the efficiency and orderly fashion of nature and continue to protect our resources. In order to do so, people must manage nature by growing and harvesting crops and managing the resources given by practical and conservative uses. Christians understand that nature has been corrupted by the innate sinfulness of man, and therefore man must restore the glory and beauty of nature. We must preserve the gift of nature and be intentional about our treatment of nature. But, the Earth is resislent. It survives the contamination and the abuse; God's healing hand continues to effect nature as well. Apocalyptic statements hold little meaning and serve as representative of the radical environmentalist movement. However, the purpose of the steward is to protect and enjoy nature. We should fulfill that purpose.