We are asked to claim every are of this earth as the Lord's. In planting the flag for our God, we will always be out of step with those who have claimed the earth and its goods as their own. As gardeners, wardens, and nursemaids of the earth, some of us will be asked to suffer for the assertion of Christ's lordship over life. Where violence, revenge, and selfishness prevail, we will turn the other cheek and thwart the escalation of evil. From earthkeeping to knowledge building, from controversy in workplaces to places of justice, from the open spaces to the polluted places, together we are called to speak God's word of justice and peace. God promises to make us like trees on the banks of a stream, always well fed so we can be fruitful, in harmony with the season.

I hate, I despise your religious feasts; I cannot stand your assemblies. Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Though you bring choice fellowship offerings, I will have no regard for them. Away with the noise of your songs! I will not listen to the music of your harps. But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!