SEVERAL YEARS AGO my husband and I took a flight in a hot air balloon. The experience was exalting, but as we sailed upward, we saw a thick layer of pollution blanketing the city. It was astounding—and disheartening. I must admit, it shook my somewhat apathetic view of environmental issues. I had heard and read of seriously threatened climates, polluted rivers, soil contaminants, and the resulting discussions about health concerns. I also had a general awareness of the conflict between modern industry and the natural environment. Yet the problem appeared so vast in its political, scientific, economic, and ethical ramifications that there seemed to be little one individual could do. I think that's why I had not moved into action. Now, with heightened awareness, I was committed to doing my part in taking better care of the environment. I started by being more conscientious about recycling. But was it possible to take any other action that would make even the slightest difference?
This issue isn't outside the range of God's help.
Thinking through this question, I was reminded that it was spiritual activism that had made the most effective and healing impact in the personal issues of my life. What if I, along with others, prayed specifically for the protection and preservation of the environment? Had I been thinking that this issue was outside the range of God's help—too big for Him? It is prayer and spiritualization of thought that will lay the most solid foundation for confronting and solving even the global challenge of pollution.
