Sacrifice

Reading: Genesis 22

Sacrifice. Though it is a word often used in Christianity, the thought of sacrifice often causes people to cringe. Especially if it is suggested that sacrifices should be made for the environment. 'Green'industry has picked up on this, and has created a plethora of items it sells to people as environmentally friendly. Even aside from the often rampant greenwashing that occurs, there is a serious desire here to distract consumers from the real issue. These companies are trying to convince you that you can continue to buy as much as you like and still save the environment. People like to believe this because it is easy. They can continue living the same lifestyles and just pay a little more for 'green' products to offset their guilt.

I am not saying there are not some fantastic products out there, which really will help the environment. I am just warning that the reality of limited resources means that we cannot simply keep consuming at the rate we are, not even if most of the products we are buying are more environmentally friendly. Creating these products still uses resources.

Perhaps it is time that western countries considered sacrificing some of their consumerism on the altar of God. The growing crisis of climate change would suggest that like Abraham, God is asking us to sacrifice something we love as a testimony to our love for him.

It's easier than you think. You don't have to give up everything- just start thinking about the impact of your actions and slowly start working on reducing them. As they say, 'sustainability is a journey, not a destination'. Start off with the easy things- like turning off lightbulbs and items you aren't using at the powerpoint rather than leaving them on standby. You might be surprised how much money you save. Turn your air-conditioner up one or two degrees. You will barely notice it, but your sacrifice will mean a lot for your energy use. Invest some money in purchasing green power or solar panels and solar heating if you can afford them.

The key is to only see it as a sacrifice if that is the only way you can convince yourself to do it. Try and move towards seeing it as an act of praise- because that is what it is. Obedience and praise of God.