Theological Reflection on Creation and Mission

Theological Reflection on Creation and Mission

The Beauty of Creation and Its Impact on Wellbeing

The natural world, with its vast landscapes, intricate ecosystems, and awe-inspiring beauty, serves as a reminder of God’s majesty and creativity. For those of us who find solace in the hills and coasts, nature becomes a sanctuary, a place to reconnect not only with ourselves but with the Creator - creation has literally been a life saver for me. The Psalmist’s words, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands” (Psalm 19:1), ring true in these moments. In walking through the North Yorkshire Moors or along the coastline of the North East, I feel a sense of grounding, as though creation itself invites us into a deeper relationship with its Creator. This experience of awe and tranquility in nature has a restorative impact, allowing us to reflect on life's deeper meanings, recharge from the weariness of daily life, and remember our place in the grand narrative of God’s creation.

For me, as someone who finds nature to be a place of spiritual rejuvenation, this connection with creation is not only a personal retreat but a divine encounter. This is echoed in the biblical understanding of creation as a gift—given not only to sustain life but also to enrich it. When we walk in creation, we are reminded of our dependence on God and God’s provision. Nature's beauty, whether in a purple heather moorland or a crashing wave on the beach, becomes a means of grace, revealing the Creator’s heart and inviting us to enter into God’s rest.

Seeing the Creator in Creation

Paul speaks to this in Romans 1:20: "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made." Creation is not just a backdrop to human existence; it is a revelation of God’s very character. The order, complexity, and beauty of the natural world are a testament to God’s power and wisdom. In the same way that an artist reveals something of themselves in their work, God reveals God’s love, care, and sovereignty in creation.

In moments where we stand in awe of a sunset, or feel the wind as we walk through a forest, we catch glimpses of the Creator’s presence. This connection between creation and Creator calls us to a posture of humility and reverence. When we appreciate the world around us, we are participating in an act of worship, acknowledging that God is both Creator and Sustainer.

Caring for Creation as a Mission Priority

The Salvation Army's mission priority to care for creation is deeply rooted in biblical theology. Genesis 2:15 tells us that God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it." From the very beginning, humanity was given the responsibility of stewardship over creation. This role is not an afterthought; it is a central aspect of our relationship with God and God’s world.

Caring for creation, then, is not merely a practical task—it is a spiritual mandate. Climate change disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable in society. Jesus’ command to “love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31) takes on a broader scope when we realise that caring for creation is one of the ways we protect and care for our neighbours. Whether it’s ensuring access to food, shelter, and resources during extreme weather, or advocating for sustainable practices, our response to creation care is intertwined with our call to love others.

In the context of the United Kingdom and Ireland, the impact of climate change is already evident. For example, hot summers pose a threat to those experiencing homelessness who lack shelter, and colder, wetter winters exacerbate the cost of living and access to food. As followers of Jesus, our mission is to respond to these realities with compassion and action, recognising that environmental justice is a form of social justice. The poor and vulnerable often bear the brunt of environmental degradation, and to ignore this issue is to neglect our Christian duty to protect and serve them.

Creation Care as an Expression of Loving God and Neighbour

Loving God and loving our neighbour are the two greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40), and caring for creation is an extension of this love. By caring for the environment, we honour the Creator and safeguard the wellbeing of others. In doing so, we fulfill our mission as Christians to bring about God’s kingdom on earth—a kingdom where justice, peace, and care for all creation are upheld.

In a world facing ecological crises, the Church must be at the forefront of environmental stewardship. Not only does this align with our theological convictions, but it also presents an opportunity to witness to the world about God’s love and care for all God has made. When we act to protect the environment, we reflect the heart of God and participate in the redemption and renewal of all things.

Conclusion  

Caring for creation is not a peripheral issue but a core aspect of our faith and mission. Through the beauty of nature, we encounter the Creator and are reminded of God’s love and power. This experience shapes our spiritual wellbeing, drawing us closer to God. At the same time, creation care is a practical expression of loving our neighbour, as it addresses the pressing issues of climate change and its impact on the vulnerable. As we continue to walk in nature and marvel at its beauty, we must be moved to action, stewarding this gift and ensuring that it remains a testament to God's glory for generations to come.