Holy Eating in a Climate Changed World
The apostle Paul writes, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (I Corinthians 10:31). It’s hard to imagine how overconsumption — which so often exacerbates health problems and contributes to climate change — can be to the “glory of God.”
An estimated 735 million people went hungry last year according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Here in the West, we have a different problem. Almost two billion people were classified as overweight and 600 million as obese. An estimated 1 billion tons, a third of the food produced went to waste in 2023.
We often ask others to change. But let us look at ourselves, our lifestyles, our habits. Are we truly living a life that reflects God’s glory?
A third of the world’s airable land is used to raise or feed livestock, with cattle requiring significantly more land. On top of that, cows release a vast amount of methane gas in their lifetimes, accounting for nearly 10 percent of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions.
If the world reduced meat consumption by 15% it would save the same greenhouse gas emissions as taking 240 million cars off the road each year. Plant based foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, peas, nuts, and lentils – use less energy, land, and water, and have lower greenhouse gas intensities than animal-based food.
By eating less meat we will not only reduce emissions but help to aid the health of people and planet. Change is hard. Use the tools of Faith to help you. Use the Tool of Love and Compassion. Turn your Heart toward the Lord the Giver of Life
We can do this together. Learn more and get recipe ideas at www.meatlessmonday.com. For further dialog please contact me Mary Mendenhall [email protected]
Tags: Creation Care