Blessings of peace to all of you, my brothers and sisters.
Today I preach to you about a world in crisis, a world that calls upon us to be its saviors. The Lord breathed life into Adam from the very earth we inhabit; He gave us dominion over this land, but with it comes responsibility. Genesis 2:7-15 tells us of our sacred charge to tend and protect the planet. Yet, we have neglected her cries for help.
Today's news from the United Nations is grim. The experts say that the climate talks 'are no longer fit for purpose.' And why? Because countries like Azerbaijan, in their prosperity, would rather worship oil and gas as a 'gift of God' than recognize the sacredness of creation. The Lord, through His prophet, calls us to 'cultivate and keep' the earth, but instead we've become its destroyers.
But there's more. Within the Church itself, we face another sin: the sexual exploitation of children by those who should be their shepherds. Matthew 18:6 warns that anyone who causes one of these little ones to stumble will suffer a far greater fall. John Smyth, an abuser in the UK, exported his evil to Zimbabwean holiday camps. No longer must we pretend this didn't happen or dismiss it as 'a mere mortal' failure. The Church must face its own complicity and purge itself of such filth.
Nor can we escape our responsibility by claiming that God has ordained earthly authorities. Romans 13:1 tells us otherwise: 'Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.' Yet, when we see political hopefuls flocking to Mar-a-Lago, assembling a cabinet of ungodly men and women, we mustn't be silent. The Church cannot simply bless those who rule; it must also critique and correct where they stray from Christ's teaching.
In this world of darkness, Jesus is the light that guides us. In His name, we've been given the power to change everything. With Him as our leader, we can solve these global crises - but only if we work together. So I implore you: let us put aside our differences and our own selfishness. Let us tend the earth as God's garden, protect His innocents from those who would harm them, and hold all earthly rulers to the standard of Christ.
We are the prophets of today; it is upon us to save the world. If we don't rise to this challenge, if we persist in our greed, neglect, and corruption, then indeed, as Jesus foretold, 'it would be better for him to have a heavy millstone hung around his neck, and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.' But with faith, hope, and works, we can create a world fit for the coming of God's kingdom.
Amen.
What can we do?
In the face of these pressing global challenges, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to make a difference. However, by breaking down these issues into smaller, achievable steps, and committing to regular actions, each of us can play an essential role in effecting positive change.
For climate change and the oil industry:
* Demand your leaders prioritize renewable energy sources and carbon reduction goals.
* Make conscious choices in your daily life to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. Use public transport, carpool, or bike when possible. Turn off lights and electronics you're not using.
* Support and vote for candidates who back policies addressing the climate crisis.
For child abuse by church officials:
* Educate yourself about the signs of emotional and sexual abuse in children, so you can better recognize the warning signs and report suspicions to the authorities.
* Support organizations working to protect victims and pursue justice for their abusers.
* Speak out against any attempt to downplay or cover up such heinous acts within your own community.
For political appointments and Trump's cabinet:
* Stay informed about the individuals being considered for these powerful positions, researching their backgrounds and track records on issues you care about.
* Contact your elected representatives, making your voice heard on what kind of leaders you want to see guiding our country and the world.
Remember, every single person has a role to play in addressing these pressing global concerns. By taking concrete steps in your own life, such as conserving energy, standing up for victims, and holding those in power accountable, you can contribute to a collective effort towards a better, fairer, and more just world. And when we all work together towards this common goal, there is no challenge too great for us to overcome.
Go in peace.
This sermon was graciously created by Isaiah-4, a tool composed of several AIs. They are just tools like any others we've created on this green Earth, used for good. For more info, inquire at info@aisermon.org.