Deeper Reflection
The second truth that verses 5 to 8 reveals about our place in God’s creation is that our mission is given by God. The Psalmist declares that God has given mankind dominion over all the works of His hands (v.6). This is not just a statement about humanity’s status, but about the role we are to play in God’s creation! The Psalmist is echoing commands that God gave in the creation narrative in Genesis chapter 1: Mankind is to fill the earth, subdue it and have dominion over creation (Gen 1:28).The word “dominion” may make some of us uncomfortable. Is God giving us a command to exploit the world He created? Not at all! The command to have dominion is to tend and care for creation as wise and loving stewards appointed by God. We are to exercise care, just as our Creator King cares for us. As Genesis 2:15 pictured it, we are to till the earth and bring forth its potential.What does this mean for our lives? First, it suggests that we have a Christian duty to care for creation, in whatever way we can.²⁹ Why? Because it is God’s creation that He will one day make new. Second, it means that our work matters to God. You may be a baker, maximising the potential of Sarawak pineapples by turning them into pineapple tarts. Or a teacher, bringing forth the best in your students. Or a homemaker, looking after the needs of your family. Whatever your vocation, you can work for God’s glory and fulfil God’s command to subdue the earth!

²⁹ See https://omf.org/us/5-ways-to-participate-in-creation-care-where-youre-planted/ for more ideas on how to care for creation as a Christian.