News reports today concerning ever-rising temperatures in the Arctic remind us that coronavirus is not the only crisis we are facing. The latter may currently be the more pressing, but the long-term consequences of the former may prove to be more profound, and potentially more devastating. Environmental issues are as real today as when the pandemic first struck, and it is hard to see why anyone, unless they have vested interests in doing so, would ever want to put their head in in the sand and pretend that all is well. The following prayer, taken from my recent book Intercessions for a Hurting World, commits to God all those seeking to respond meaningfully and urgently to the care of this beautiful but fragile planet we inhabit.
Lord of all,
we think today of our environment
and of those who seek to protect it for future generations.
We think of individuals striving to live more responsibly –
recycling whatever they can,
purchasing environmentally friendly products
where possible,
cutting down on waste,
considering where and how they drive –
doing everything in their power
to reduce their ecological footprint.
Help all to understand better what steps they can take
and to act upon them.
Teach us today
to think of tomorrow.
We think of environmental groups and campaigners:
those who monitor the health of our planet
and our impact upon it;
who seek to promote wider awareness of ecological issues;
who stand up for green policies against vested interest
and corporate greed.
Give them a platform to speak
and the ability to make a real and lasting difference.
Teach us today
to think of tomorrow.
We think of governments, delegates and politicians –
those who must strike a balance between environmental
and economic concerns,
conservation and development;
safeguarding life itself as opposed merely to standards of living.
Give them wisdom and courage in the choices they must make –
pragmatism where necessary
but never at the cost of a wider idealism.
May they consider not just the present generation,
but those to follow;
not just short-term gain,
but long-term sustainability.
Teach us today
to think of tomorrow.
We think of meteorologists who study the climate,
scientists who explore the delicate balance of life,
researchers who collect and interpret data –
all who help us to gauge the health of this world
and what might threaten it.
Help them to outline the steps needed
to promote life on earth,
not just for today
but for tomorrow and far beyond.
Teach us today
to think of tomorrow.
Amen.