A recent article in The Guardian caught my attention:
“Australian tropical rainforest trees switch in world first from carbon sink to emissions source.”

At first glance, it sounded disheartening that trees that once absorbed carbon are now releasing it. Yet as I read more closely, I was struck by the extraordinary care and creativity emerging in response.

Not surprising: Scientists, Indigenous custodians, and communities are collaborating in unprecedented ways to address the crisis by nurturing our rainforests back to health as much as possible. New seedlings are being planted, water systems are being restored, and generations are learning again how to live in rhythm with the land.

It reminded me of this weeks’ Psalm, 65, a song that celebrates the God who visits the earth not once but continually. God’s care is not a single act of creation long ago; it’s an ongoing rhythm of renewal. Even when the land appears tired, the psalmist sees signs of grace: rivers filled, soil softened, valleys clothed with grain, hills wrapped in joy.

The God who watered the earth, still does.

In every new experiment to heal the land, in every act of conservation, in every community that chooses to roll up their sleeves and work, there is hope over apathy, and that is where we glimpse God’s renewing Spirit at work.

This psalm calls us to gratitude and work. It reminds us that creation’s story is of God’s grace continually breaking through. The hills still wear their joy, and the pastures still sing, albeit sometimes quietly, or sometimes defiantly, but always faithfully. We are still responsible as carers of this planet to strive in caring for it, in every way possible!

Blessings — Rev. Carmel Sheraton