The West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church supports a wide variety of mission partners, both local and global, in advancing our common mission to 'make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.' Each month, we will join together in praying for our siblings doing mission and ministry around the world.
December: Creation Care
“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it” (Psalm 24:1). Yet often we treat the earth as disposable, much like the Styrofoam plates we use at church potlucks and then throw away. Many of us live as though we can simply buy another planet when we finish using this one, but nature tells us otherwise. Melting glaciers, rising sea levels, droughts and wildfires, stronger hurricanes – our planet is dying, and we must move quickly to save it. Drastic reductions in fossil fuel emissions are required in order to preserve a planet where all people can live and thrive. Governments must act boldly and decisively to fund more sustainable solutions, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, supporting small farmers, and protecting our ecosystems. On a personal level, individuals can do simple things like eat more vegetables and less meat, reuse and recycle, switch to energy efficient appliances and light bulbs, and reduce food waste. We all inhabit this planet together, so let’s all work to make our planet a healthy place to live!
This month, please pray for:
- Week 1: Small sustainable farmers who must compete with box stores and big agriculture.
- Week 2: People to consider how their choices affect the environment.
- Week 3: The government to invest in renewable energy and stop relying on fossil fuels.
- Week 4: All of us to take seriously the biblical imperative to care for God’s creation.
Never doubt that your prayers make a difference!