Sustainability

 Haggai 1: 15b – 2;9 v 5 “My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.”

The leaders of the local government, the high priest of the church and the remnant of God’s people began to rebuild the church. Then one month later another message was received through the prophet Haggai. Does anyone remember the former splendor of this building they are putting back together? Get to work God says. My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid.” “I will again shake the heavens and the earth, the oceans and the dry land. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord of heavens armies.’ The future glory will be greater than the past. And in this place, I will bring peace.”

In the bible I used to look up this reference, the new living translation, the book of Haggai takes up a page and a quarter. A minor prophet. However, all words in the bible have a significance that goes beyond the time that they were written. Does it not feel like God is shaking up the world right now? The effects of climate change are all around us from floods to droughts to forest fires, whether you believe it is a naturel phenomenon or something enhanced by human practices our changing world requires changes to be made by all of us to keep this green planet alive. In Egypt right now the 27^th meeting organized by the United Nations to discuss climate change is going on reference here. Governments are trying to work together. The Church is being shaken. Traditional churches across the globe are decreasing in numbers in the pews on a Sunday. Governance changes are happening to accommodate the lack of Ministers and priest. And the people are scattered after being told to stay home due to the pandemic they have found other ways to connect or are happy not to be connected to a church building. Take heart today from the words of God. “My Spirit remains among you. Do not be afraid. The future glory will be greater than the past. I will bring peace!

Prayer: Almighty God who reigns in the shaking and the building send us strength to keep going as we build a new direction for your people. To work together to bring sustainability to the earth, the Church and your people. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.