A Vision for Stewardship: Reimagining Our Relationship with the Earth (02/05/'24)*

A Vision for Stewardship: Reimagining Our Relationship with the Earth In the heart of ancient wisdom, as conveyed through the teachings of Leviticus, we find a profound message about the stewardship of the earth that resonates deeply with the challenges we face today. This ancient text reminds us that the land, along with all its natural counterparts—the air, water, sky, and ocean—is not a commodity to be owned or sold in perpetuity but a sacred trust for which we are all responsible. It asserts a divine claim: the earth belongs to a higher power, and we, its inhabitants, are merely temporary stewards. This perspective calls for a radical rethinking of how we view and interact with our environment. It challenges us to envision a world where the intrinsic value of our natural resources is recognized and respected, not merely for their economic benefits but as essential elements that sustain life itself. The vision laid out in this ancient wisdom encourages us to create systems and societies that ensure the benefits of the land, air, water, sky, and ocean are shared equitably, serving the common good rather than the interests of a privileged few. To bring this vision to life, we must embrace values that promote sustainability, justice, and equity. This involves implementing practices and policies that prioritize community stewardship of land, equitable distribution of resources, and the protection of natural habitats. It requires us to adopt a mindset of collective responsibility, where the well-being of the planet and all its inhabitants is considered in our decisions and actions. In this renewed covenant with the earth, we are called to challenge the status quo, to question the systems and structures that have led to environmental degradation and social inequality. By grounding our actions in the values of care, respect, and stewardship, we can forge a path toward a more sustainable and just world. This is not merely an aspiration but a necessity, for the well-being of future generations and the health of the planet itself depend on our ability to respond to this call with courage, creativity, and commitment. -Written by Steven G. Lee (February 5, 2024)