The Earth is a masterpiece of God’s artistry. Invite your kids into practices of creation care to celebrate this on Earth Day!
Oh, lord, there are times when habitat destruction, pollution, and death can feel like almost too much to take in. So, let me offer you some hope this Earth Day. We are not powerless. Let’s inspire our kids to be a generation that takes creation care seriously and brings about change!
What are you doing with your kids this Earth Day to celebrate God’s beauty and bring healing to creation? Share with us in the comments below!
Using Our Power
Getting honest is important, even and especially when it’s uncomfortable to do so. We need to be real with ourselves about the state of things. It doesn’t help any of us if we avoid and deny.
Our holy texts tell us that “The earth lies polluted under its inhabitants; for they have transgressed laws, violated the statutes, broken the everlasting covenant.” Yikes! We’ve been on this path for a long time.
But, we have the power to make change happen. We do not have to live as victims, overwhelmed. God is with us, faithful and gives us the strength to protect, restore and create the world in partnership with the relentless Divine Force of Life. So, in turn, we might flourish along with her.
Creation Care with Your Kids
Support struggling animals. There are several animal species currently on their way to extinction. We can come together and help! We are all a part of God’s creation and deserve the best opportunity to flourish. And our lives will be drastically affected. On the other hand, we have the power to make a difference in our future.
Pick up trash. Head to the coast or to the sidewalks. Bring a bag, gloves, and help clear the land of waste. This helps our animal and plant brothers and sisters. Additionally, it increases our health. Lastly, it will make your community more beautiful to live in.
Clear your garage and pantry of pesticides. The fact of the matter is that these harmful chemicals are decimating insect populations. Why does this matter? Pollinators are something we CANNOT live without. So, we need to stop killing them off inadvertently.
Plant native plants. Dig in the dirt with your kids! First, this increases beauty. Second, you will use less water to keep them alive. Third, the insects will benefit from having plants they are designed to ingest and pollinate.
Create your own Act of Green. Earth Day Network is launching a series of major campaigns to bring about global collaboration. Support the effort by creating your own Act of Green — and helping them reach 3 billion. These acts are anything from quitting smoking to using fabric bags.
Switch to non-plastic bags and wraps. Zero waste alternatives include beeswax-infused fabric wrap, stainless steel and glass containers, silicon storage bags, and so many more. Some of these are easy to make at home with your kiddos, too!
Don’t forget to tell us what you’re doing with your kiddos to celebrate Earth Day in the comments below!
Earth Day Prayer
I leave you with a prayer from St. Basil the Great. As you celebrate Earth Day this year may you feel deep connection to the Earth where we find our home and our peace. And may you find joy and purpose in caring for Her.
O God, enlarge within us the sense of
fellowship with all living things,
our brothers/sisters the animals to whom thou
gavest the earth as their home in common with us.May we realize that they live not for
us alone but for themselves and for
thee, and that they love
the sweetness of life.