The Miracle of Soil

Here are some interesting facts about soil:  Soil is home to the majority of the earth’s species with only 1% identified or studied. Most of our food is grown in soil.  However, we are losing topsoil more than 10 times faster than it is formed.  Soil stores more carbon than the atmosphere and forests combined, aiding in the fight against climate change.  It provides for the growth of plants and trees which provide food and habitat for other creatures.  Healthy soil helps prevent floods and mitigates drought.

Our Ash Wednesday service informs us that we are part of this soil—within the ecosystem of God’s creation.  As the palm branches once sprouted, grew and were harvested and burned into ash, we too participate in the cycle of birth, growth, maturity and death.  But, in the “now”, we are yet maturing into God’s purpose for us.  Thanks be to God.

Earth Steward Action: Advocate for preserving healthy soil. Read the poem listed in resources.

Sources: https://paintedprayerbook.com/2013/02/08/as... (poem by Jan Richardson)

https://www.soilassociation.org  (click on campaigns for facts).