We know that all creation is groaning and is in sin.
Observation
We rarely think about how our sin cumulatively affects the universe. Science has taught us to think of ourselves as insignificant in the order of things- just educated apes on an unremarkable planet in a remote part of the galaxy.
But to God and to creation our actions have cosmic significance. Paul says in these verses:
creation eagerly waits for God's children to be revealed
creation is confused
creation is groaning and in pain like a woman about to give birth
We see all around us the signs of the groaning of creation- bushfires in Victoria, whale strandings in Tasmania, shark attacks in New South Wales, floods in Queensland, even snow in Baghdad.
These are signs of creation confounded by our sin. But redemption is coming!
Application
Our culture teaches us that things are alright if nobody gets hurt. But my sin spreads out from me to the whole of creation.
Equally my salvation and my deeds of righteousness spread outwards to help heal creation.
One day, God will make all things new, but in the meantime I need to recognise that my deeds rebound through all of creation- for good or evil.
Prayer
Father let my actions today bring healing not destruction, reconciliation not strife, wholeness not division. Amen.
What a great thought. We need to remember how far reaching our thoughts and actions are.
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