The Gift of Water
Genesis 1:6-10
God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:10
When scientists probe other planets near us, they ask if there is water somehow on that planet. Water would suggest the possibility of life. So basic to our life is the presence of water that we can’t imagine life without it. Water covers about 71% of the earth’s surface. The oceans hold about 96.5% of all earth’s water. Up to 60% of the human body is water. Even our bones are 31% water.
Water is a gift from God and essential to life. We use this gift in many ways. Water sustains life. WE use it to clean ourselves, our clothes, our possessions. Water is a source of food and cools the planet. Water is an important source of power. We use water for recreation and even transportation. The constant circle of evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection continues to support and renew life on the planet.
We take this great gift for granted to our peril. The pollution of our waters is a real threat. Plastics now threaten sea life. Global climate change and other man-made changes to the oceans threaten life-giving coral reefs in the seas. Waste dumped into waterways and aquifers threaten our drinking water.
Despite the problems, this holy gift of water has a resilience. Many years ago, authorities cut the sources of the pollution of Lake Erie, which had become toxic over time. The lake recovered quickly to everyone’s surprise and continues to nourish life.
Surrounded by an abundance of water can we go beyond taking it for granted and remember that water is God’s gift?
PRAY: God of all creation, when the earth was void, you separated the waters that dry land might appear and yet the planet remains 72% water. In the desert you provided water from the rock for thirsty Israelites. You promise streams of life-giving water in a new heaven and a new earth. Help us to give thanks and not take for granted the gift of water. Amen.
FAST: From using water for a second cup of coffee today.
ACT: Set aside a six pack of water for a local food pantry
OR set aside $1 for the ELCA World Hunger Appeal.
...the least of these... 