A spiritual perspective on food supplies

BY GEORGIANNA PFOST

Crop failures and food shortages frequently make the news, especially in drought-stricken areas of Africa or disaster zones like Haiti. Yet it's useful to remember that there has also been some positive news about the world's food system and efforts to make it more sustainable. An article in The Christian Science Monitor described an American farmer who's implemented a method of pasture rotation that maintains the fertility of his soils and the health of his livestock. He's now teaching other farmers about it so they too can successfully raise crops and animals in harmony with the local ecology, and personally market the farm products ("A Better Way to Raise Food," November 22, 2009).

Other encouraging food news has included stories of volunteers gleaning leftover fruits and vegetables to supply urban food banks. Researchers are investigating the use of natural substances for pesticides, and communities are working to sustain local farms through "community-supported agriculture" programs. These reports reflect an increasing awareness of the current imbalances in local and global food production and distribution, and steps being taken to grow sufficient, good-quality food in an ecologically sound manner (sustainable agriculture). Nevertheless, much more needs to be done to establish a fully sustainable food system. Spiritual insight and prayer can help.

Prayer, of course, begins with God—divine Life and Love—and communion with God brings a clearer view of spiritual reality. It transforms our present experience. Prayer brings the correct perspective on God's creation (including people, animals, and environmental conditions) as spiritual, purely good, harmoniously coexistent, and eternally sustained by Him. From this higher view, food can be seen as a tangible expression of infinite Love's sustenance. Farming and food preparation are uplifted to active expressions of eternal Life's provision.