Our nations, towns or cities—require our attention and devotion. Just as Adam was expected to cultivate the garden, we are called to nurture our surroundings, ensuring that they thrive.

Whose Problem Is It Anyway?  It’s easy to think of environmental issues as someone else's responsibility. We often say, “It’s their problem,” until we see the impact on our own lives. This detachment can lead us to overlook the small ways our actions influence the wider world.

When pollution seeps into our air or our water sources are contaminated, we suddenly realize that ignoring the problem does not protect us from its consequences. Each individual plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, and the responsibility of caring for creation belongs to all of us.

By recognising that a healthy environment is vital for our well-being, we can shift our mindset from apathy to action, understanding that every effort counts in the stewardship of our planet.

"Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.' So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'"  Genesis 1:26-28 niv

"The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it." Genesis 2:15 NIV.

As we reflect on the creation account found in Genesis, we see the wondrous design of our world. God created the earth, not just as a backdrop for humanity but as a living, breathing entity to be nurtured. In Genesis 1:26-28, God entrusted us with the magnificent responsibility of stewardship—an invitation to engage actively in the preservation and care of all He has created.

When God created humankind in His image, He established a unique relationship between us and creation. This resemblance invites us to reflect on His creative and nurturing nature.

As caretakers of the earth, we have been equipped to act with love, wisdom, and respect towards all living things. Our responsibility is to govern the earth not with an iron fist, but with care reflective of the Creator's compassion.

In Genesis 2:15, we are reminded that Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it."  This principle extends to our modern lives. Our environments—whether they are gardens, parks, lakes, or cities—require our attention and devotion. Just as Adam was expected to cultivate the garden, we are called to nurture our surroundings, ensuring that they thrive.

The responsibility we have towards the environment is interconnected with our faith. It is a ripple effect of our claim as Christians to love and honour God.

Caring for creation honors God and demonstrates our gratitude for His gifts. When we engage in initiatives that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship, we participate in a divine mission to reflect God’s love to both people and the planet.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, 

Thank You for the beauty and abundance of Your creation. Help us to fulfill our role as stewards, caring for the earth with diligence and respect. May we reflect Your image in our actions, being mindful of the impact we have on our environment. Grant us the wisdom to make choices that protect and nurture all living things, and inspire us to lead others in this shared responsibility. Amen.

This week, let us not be like the ostrich, sticking our heads in the sand and thinking that the problems will go away. Consider ways to actively engage in caring for our environment.

Whether it’s recycling, planting trees, conserving valuable water bodies and water, or educating others about sustainability, let us commit to nurturing the world around us. Remember, every small act contributes to the larger mission God has entrusted to us. Let's work together to tend to His creation and ensure it flourishes for generations to come.

---

The author, Bishop Dr Suzanne Nti is the Chairperson of Crusaders Against Corruption,