"God said to them (human beings), 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.' " (Genesis 1:28)
 
"The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it." (Psalm 24:1a)
 
"The world and all that is in it is mine." (Psalm 50:12b)

I wholeheartedly endorse our congregation's anticipated conversion to a solar electric system. However, my reason for support of the project is not financial. The financial aspects of the project are favorable, but my reason is spiritual. I think our venture into solar energy is responsible stewardship - an acknowledgement of God's ownership of the world and a demonstration of care for the planet entrusted to us.

Biblically, "the earth is the Lord's and all that is in it." (Psalm 24:1a). Or, as another psalmist, speaking for God, says: "Every wild animal of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills; I know all the birds of the air, and all that moves in the field is mine. . .the world and all that is in it is mine" (Psalm 50:10-12).

Since 'he's got the whole world in his hands', it follows that we are stewards. Stewards are partners with the Creator - managers or administrators of the creation. Accountability is implied. Stewards are answerable to the landlord.

Accordingly, our God-given gifts of nature are to be used, but neither abused nor misused. Natural resources are to be shared, not hoarded or consumed egocentrically. The land, air and water are to be cared for, not raped for short-term gain or easy profit. In short, environmental policies and practices are to be based on love of others and justice for all, not on self-centered motives of special interests.

As I see it, our venture into a solar electric system is a step in the right direction - a step in the direction of helping to repair humanity's abusive relationship with nature ad a step toward saving the planet for future generations.

Almighty God, in giving us dominion over things on earth, you made us coworkers in your creation. Give us wisdom and reverence to use the resources of nature so that no one may suffer from our abuse of them, and that generations yet to come may continue to praise you for your bounty; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Evangelical Lutheran Worship, page 80

Contributed by Pastor Dick
Sunday July 27, 2008
Liturgical Year A Week 35
Sunday Gospel reading:
Lectionary 17 (Proper 12)
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost