“The land finally enjoyed its Sabbath rest, lying desolate...” (2 Chronicles 36:21 NLT)
Surrounding the dark cloud of this pandemic, there might be a silver lining. As people quarantine in their homes, pollution has decreased significantly all over the world. Air quality has improved in big cities. The peaks of mountains that have not been visible in ages can now be viewed from distant villages. Rivers and oceans are cleaner. Animals that are rarely seen near human civilization have returned. The sounds of birds chirping seem louder now that other noises have been turned down. All of this points to how human activity impacts the planet.
What lessons can we take away from this current experience?
The health of our planet directly impacts human health. It is a symbiotic relationship. Our planet has sustained humanity thus far. Like a mother with unruly kids, she has tolerated our demands, messiness, and recklessness. She is tired and could really use a break. Instead of continually exploiting her resources, perhaps we could make thoughtful choices that are a bit less damaging to her survival. Earth deserves a Sabbath rest, and humanity deserves to live in a healthy environment.
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