Interdependence is the concept that all the species within a specific ecosystem are connected. A carnivore is dependent on the plants in the area –not because it eats the plants, rather, because it eats that which eats the plants. The plants, in turn, are dependent on the predatory carnivore because it keeps the population of herbivores in check. This concept came to bear in significant ways when a certain species of wolf was reintroduced to its natural habitat. In less than a decade, the local deer population was under control again. As a result, the wetlands near the river that ran through the area regained health and even changed course. Biologists credit the wolf for the way the river was able to correct its course. The land was healed and transformed. As we go about daily life, we may not think of our interdependence but, just like the wolf, the church as we know it is increasingly aware that it is nearing extinction in many places.
This week, we reflect on the relationship between Jesus’ ministry and the ministry of Moses and Elijah. Is the vitality of your ministry or community aware of its interdependence? Could you be more aware of dependence on plants, animals, and sensitive ecosystems as well? How might your presence change the course of the rivers of life that flow through your context?