Liturgy 3
We are called to serve, protect, and restore the earth vs.
We stand over and against the earth and can do what we please
Reflection by Chara Larson

How does the counter liturgy appear in your own life or surroundings?

The counter-liturgy “We stand over and against the earth and can do what we please” is evident in the economic priorities of our culture. Since the monetary value of a wetland is usually less than that of a residential development, for instance, the wetland is usually converted. More specifically and personally, a mindset centered around disposability is clear in my college dining hall, where much food is wasted as a result of the “all-you-can-eat” meal swipe approach.

What habits or practices have most helped you to resist the counter-liturgy and live out the truth of the liturgy?

Au Sable ingrained in me that nature is precious – every living thing, every creature and plant, whether extravagant or common, has intrinsic value. I want to help others see its beauty and worth. This mindset leads me to serve, protect, and restore God’s earth by inviting others to appreciate it with me, pointing out the beauty I see and sharing my wonder. I also seek to help people value nature by committing to pick up others’ trash, no matter how inconvenient it is.

What is something you started doing at Au Sable that you’ve carried with you into your life back home? How is that shaping you?

Au Sable was my first exposure to the world of field biology, and it opened my eyes to the joys of engaging with the natural world in everyday life. I was inspired to explore birding, including through a research project for a class, and I try to identify the new plants I encounter. These small ways of daily deepening my knowledge of God’s creation nurture within me a more significant appreciation that I am a part of that creation. Identifying what kind of woods I walk in or the birdsong I hear on my way to class reminds me that God designed this majestic and precious world to glorify Him, down to the smallest detail.

How has your life of worship and understanding of God shifted as a result of practicing this liturgy?

My past and current churches and Christian communities believe strongly in missional outreach to unbelievers as a central calling of Christians. I agree wholeheartedly; however, this focus on the redemption of mankind caused me to view serving and protecting the natural world as a valuable but inferior duty. This liturgy brings to light what the Bible has to say about the importance of stewarding creation. Since I am pondering devoting my career to studying and preserving nature, the assurance that this is legitimate Christian service is encouraging. God reveals himself through the works of His hands, and I can worship Him by caring for His masterpiece and through it, pointing others to their Creator.