The Pacific Basin Initiative Climate Devotional

The Pacific Basin Initiative Advocacy Devotionals offer a diverse array of materials designed to foster spiritual growth and reflection within the Pacific Basin region. Through a range of devotional resources, including readings, prayers, videos and reflections, the initiative aims to provide individuals and communities with opportunities for deepening their faith and connection to the divine amidst the unique cultural and environmental contexts of the Pacific Basin.

Climate Justice Throughout the Pacific Basin
Our actions as stewards of the Earth have far-reaching implications, not only for the environment but also for social justice. Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities, exacerbating existing inequalities. Therefore, as we till and keep the Earth, let us advocate for climate justice, ensuring that all God’s children have access to clean air, water, and a stable climate. Let us work towards solutions that prioritize the well-being of both people and planet, recognizing that our care for creation is inseparable from our call to pursue justice and equity.

CLIMATE JUSTICE TOPICS

The scriptures below provide a biblical foundation for engaging in eco-friendly farming practices, addressing climate issues, advocating for climate justice, and promoting stewardship of creation in accordance with our Christian values.

Stewardship of Creation
At its core, the command to till and keep the garden of Eden is a call to stewardship – a call to responsibly manage and protect the Earth’s resources. As stewards of creation, we are entrusted with the care of God’s handiwork, charged with the sacred task of preserving its beauty and abundance for future generations. Let us approach our role as stewards with humility and reverence, recognizing that the Earth does not belong to us but is a gift from God. May we honor this gift by cultivating a deep respect for the natural world, striving to live in harmony with creation, and working tirelessly to safeguard its health and vitality.

Genesis 2:15 - The Call to Stewardship
In the tranquil beauty of the Garden of Eden, God entrusted humanity with a sacred task - to till and keep the earth. This divine commission echoes through the ages, resonating with us today as a profound call to stewardship. As we reflect on this verse let us embrace our role as caretakers of creation. Let us cultivate the earth with reverence and care, mindful of our responsibility to nurture and protect God's precious gift. May our hands be guided by love, our hearts filled with gratitude, as we work to safeguard the beauty and abundance of the world around us.

Indigenous Knowledge
Indigenous knowledge encompasses traditional practices, beliefs, and wisdom passed down through generations by communities. It includes insights on sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, traditional healing methods, storytelling, navigation, and cultural practices. Indigenous knowledge is particularly deeply rooted in Fijian culture and plays a vital role in shaping community identity, resilience, and sustainable living practices. Our partners in Fiji and the Philippines are incorporating traditional practices alongside modern eco-friendly farming techniques. Indigenous knowledge in these places guides sustainable agriculture, natural resource management, and deeply rooted cultural practices. This holistic approach integrates traditional wisdom with contemporary methods, contributing to community resilience and sustainable livelihoods. Lomana na Vulagi is a new, sustainable farm and retreat center that is being built in Fiji by and for the Pacific Conference of Churches.

Leviticus 25:3-4 - Sabbath Rest for the Land
In the ancient wisdom of Leviticus, we find a timeless principle of sustainability - the Sabbath rest for the land. As God commanded the Israelites to allow the earth to lie fallow every seventh year, we are reminded of the importance of rest and renewal in the cycle of life. This passage speaks to us today, inviting us to embrace the rhythms of nature and practice sustainable agriculture. Let us honor the land by giving it time to rejuvenate, practicing crop rotation and soil conservation. In doing so, we participate in God's divine plan for harmony and balance in creation, ensuring that the earth remains fruitful and abundant for generations to come.

Climate Migration
Some people from villages on many Pacific Islands have already been forced to migrate due to climate change. Fiji confronts climate-related hurdles like increasingly strong tropical cyclones, extensive rainfall causing floods, and the rising of sea levels. These climate events endanger infrastructure, agriculture, coastal settlements, and cultural landmarks, underscoring the pressing demand for initiatives that bolster climate adaptation and resilience.

Isaiah 24:4-5 - Lament for the Earth
In the prophetic words of Isaiah, we hear the earth's lament - a cry of anguish for the devastation wrought by human hands. As the earth mourns, we are confronted with the harsh reality of environmental degradation and the urgent need for repentance and renewal. This passage challenges us to confront our role in the destruction of God's creation and to strive for justice and restoration. Let us heed the earth's cry, advocating for policies that protect the vulnerable and preserve the integrity of the natural world. May our hearts be stirred to action, as we work tirelessly to heal the wounds of the earth and restore the beauty of God's creation.

Eco-friendly Farming
Tilling the land in the garden of Eden represents the act of cultivation, which speaks to the practice of farming. However, the directive to “keep it” implies a deeper responsibility – one of stewardship and care. As we engage in agriculture today, let us heed this call to farm in harmony with nature, adopting eco-friendly practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability. May we approach farming not as mere exploitation of resources, but as a sacred duty to nurture and preserve God’s creation. The Asian Rural Institute teaches rural leaders from across the world sustainable agricultural practices that they can use in their communities.

Romans 8:19-22 - Creation's Longing for Redemption
In the profound words of the Apostle Paul, we glimpse creation's longing for redemption - a yearning for liberation from the bondage of decay and death. As creation groans under the weight of human sin, we are called to join in its longing for renewal and restoration. This passage reminds us of our interconnectedness with the natural world, urging us to embrace our role as stewards of creation. Let us work tirelessly for environmental justice, advocating for policies that honor God's gift of life and protect the beauty and diversity of the earth. May our lives be a testimony to the transformative power of God's love, as we strive to build a world where all creation can flourish in harmony and peace.

Deforestation, Pollution, Coastal Development
In Fiji, mangroves are facing several threats, including deforestation, coastal development, pollution, and climate change impacts. These vital coastal ecosystems are being cleared for agriculture, aquaculture, urban development, and infrastructure projects, leading to habitat loss and fragmentation. Pollution from land-based activities, such as agriculture runoff and industrial discharge, further degrades mangrove habitats and affects water quality. Additionally, rising sea levels and increased storm intensity associated with climate change exacerbate erosion and inundation of mangrove areas, leading to their degradation and loss. Efforts are being made to conserve and restore mangroves in Fiji through various initiatives, including community-based conservation projects, reforestation programs, and awareness campaigns. These efforts aim to protect the biodiversity, coastal protection, and livelihood benefits provided by mangrove ecosystems while addressing the underlying drivers of their decline.

Psalm 24:1  - The Earth belongs to God
This verse underscores the concept of stewardship by emphasizing that the Earth belongs to God, and humanity is merely entrusted with its care. It encourages a perspective of reverence and responsibility towards the natural world, recognizing that all living beings and ecosystems are part of God's creation. In the context of mangrove conservation in Fiji, this verse emphasizes the sacredness of the environment and the need for humans to act as responsible caretakers, preserving the Earth's beauty and biodiversity for future generations.

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