Creation Groans: How to Help During Australia’s Wildfires

Photo by David Clode on Unsplash

“For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now.” Romans 8:22 (NASB)

Photo by Ninian Reid

Yes, we groan together with the creation as we witness the fires in Australia. New South Wales and Victoria regions have been devastated, and there’s no end in sight. Record heat, drought and fires — some human-caused — combine to create a perfect storm of destruction. CNN International reports that as of today, 18 people have died and nearly 1000 homes have been destroyed. People flee to the coast and are told to shelter in the water as the fires move across their town.

The impact on wildlife has been catastrophic, with an estimated 480 million animals killed. Entire species have likely been wiped out. Australia’s koala bears have lost 30 percent of their habitat, and 8000 koalas have likely been killed. Eucalyptus trees have burned, leaving the surviving koalas with little or no food. Thousands of grey-headed flying foxes — already near extinction— have been killed. Scenes of injured and bewildered animals are broadcast on the news and social media. Many of us weep.

Can there be any good news?

Perhaps good news is found in organizations that help. I will be writing a series of posts on the Australia fires, and will list ways we can help. Here are some Australian wildlife rescue groups that are well worth supporting:

WIRES (Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Services)

Port Macquarie Koala Hospital

There is good news in the knowledge that science has given us to slow the effects of climate change. I take comfort in recalling the story of Noah, and how God placed humanity (Noah and his family) in a vital role in restoring life. Yes, God told Noah what to do. But human beings used these instructions and tools to do the necessary work. 

“But I will establish My covenant with you, and you will enter the ark—you and your sons and your wife and your sons’ wives with you.” Genesis 6:18

Personally, I’m not looking for instructions to build an ark. I see hope in God’s gift of the knowledge and dedication of rescue volunteers, scientists and activists. Let us have the wisdom to recognize the knowledge and tools that are placed in our path, so that we can begin the work of healing God’s beautiful creation. 

Amen.