For the Beauty of the Earth.For the Beauty of the Earth For the Beauty of the Earth is a Christian hymn by Folliott S. Pierpoint (1835-1917). In each verse there are four lines each with seven syllables and a two-lined refrain also with seven syllables each. . By Steven Bouma-Prediger. Grand Rapids Grand Rapids, city (1990 pop. 189,126), seat of Kent co., SW central Mich., on the Grand River; inc. 1850. The second largest city in the state, it is a distribution, wholesale, and industrial center for an area that yields fruit, dairy products, farm produce, : Baker Academic, 2001. 234 pages. Paper. $21.99. Bouma-Prediger in this book gives readers a vision of what role humanity plays in the care for God's earth and the ecological response needed for a wholesome relationship with the world. At the end of his first section, he sets the tone for the remaining text: "If we wish to properly care for our homes ... then we, and all our fellow dwellers in our place, must love our homes" (p. 38). After this statement, he outlines significant ways in which we have not shown love to our planet and our neighbor. As with any important ecological theology, Bouma-Prediger sets forth a theology of the earth, creating a strong tapestry of ideas based in sound scriptural reasoning Scriptural Reasoning is an emerging practice among and between Christians, Jews, and Muslims, of reading their sacred Scriptures together, and reasoning together on particular contemporary issues. . Rightfully following this chapter, he presents his ecological theology and ethic which "challenges us to live more earth-careful lives" (p. 135). He develops his vision further by practically describing how we should live on earth by being "earthkeepers." In chapter 7 he presents "An Apologia ap·o·lo·gi·a n. A formal defense or justification. See Synonyms at apology. [Latin, apology; see apology. for Earth-Care," which strengthens his position and makes it concrete. He ends with the hope that "we bear witness to the great good news of the gospel" (p. 187). While some readers may see this as another fashionable text on ecological theology, it moves beyond that preconception pre·con·cep·tion n. An opinion or conception formed in advance of adequate knowledge or experience, especially a prejudice or bias. Noun 1. and challenges us to think of our own lives within an ecological theology. This is a wonderful introduction into ecology and theology and would be useful to the advanced student as well. Joseph E. Gaston Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago The Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC) is a seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Its degree programs include Master of Divinity, Master of Arts, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Philosophy. |
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