Much environmental theology explores the dynamics of human beings’ relationship with the world around us through the two creation stories in Genesis 1 and 2. The first includes the commandment to human beings to “be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion…”(Gen 1.28). The second has God place the first human being in the garden “to till it and keep it” (Gen 2.15). The story of the Fall includes the cursing of the ground because of human sin (Gen 3.17-19). ‘Stewardship of Creation’ has become an important theme for theology as technology has given human beings the capacity to subdue and have dominion in ways that threaten rather than ensure human survival on the planet.
Bible references: Genesis 1, 2, 3
Creator God,
you formed us from the dust of the earth,
and reveal your fingerprints in all flesh.
Teach us your deep wisdom
in the order and beauty of all that you have made.
When our care for your creation is found wanting, reprove and reform us,
so that our footprints may be more gentle on the earth,
tending and keeping it as your own handiwork,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
© The Anglican Church of Australia
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