Is there a climate change of the soul?

I’m going to give you some words and you tell me what you think about them: climate change.

What comes to mind when you see these words? Do you think that they represent a hoax? Do you think those who believe in such a thing are out to lunch and their beliefs are based upon faulty science? I have heard people say this. These are people that I highly respect.

I have also heard just the opposite. These people are warning others. They are saying that there is a problem that is largely being ignored. I have heard people say this. These are from people that I highly respect.

What do I believe? I’m not going to preach to you about this. I believe that what I say here will likely not change anyone’s mind. However, what I will say is this:

Since the 1970s, the fire season in our state has increased by over two months. Wildfires are becoming more of a challenge.

Now, I have heard people say that these conditions are temporary, and that things will get better. Others claim that there is a change in climate, but human beings have only a minor role in it. Finally, there are those who are still sounding the alarm bell and are calling for action to help reverse what is happening.

Where do you stand?

This is what I know. I know that things are getting worse each year. I also know that I am now a person who religiously follows the Air Quality Index. This number tells us how polluted the air is and forecasts how polluted it will become.

The higher the number, the more polluted the air. As I write, the Air Quality Index for Moses Lake is at 40, which is “good.” Just a few days ago, it was in the high 200s, which is “very unhealthy,” and I found it necessary to wear an N-95 mask when I went outside. I didn’t see another soul wearing one, but I chose to do so. As a result, my asthma was kept under control.

I wish we could all have a Spiritual Quality Index. We could just look at the number and it would tell us if things are “good” or if we are venturing into “very unhealthy” territory. If we had such an index, would we do anything about it?

Use your imagination. What might be your number? Will you do anything about it?

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for 30 years.