The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it. Genesis 2:15 NRSV

As I plant my gardens and flower beds, I am reminded of growing up on the farm where my dad looked after the land, not just planting and harvesting, but replenishing the soil too, albeit with that smelly manure. He also cared for the trees, and nurtured them too. And Mom planted flowers to beautify the property.

Spring is one of my favourite times of the year, where plants and trees come back to life. A property uncared for soon looks it. But like a forest untended after a fire, its original plants will soon come back, for those beginnings are in the soil around the trees.

We were meant to be keepers of creation. The First Peoples have honoured creation; we surely can too.

We’ve been reminded by scientists and others about dangers of depletion of the ozone layer, about gradual melting of glaciers, however I feel there are still things we can do.

In the city of Kitchener alone, more trees are being planted to increase the tree canopy, which in turn helps with cooling the air.

All the recycling we’ve been doing is good, being mindful of waste too. All this is good stewardship of creation.

For those who have been committed to such things, give yourself a pat on the back. We can continue to mind our actions regarding creation.

For those making efforts to care for and beautify their homes and properties, keep up the good work as well as you are able.

You are part of the keepers of creation.