A study by the Pew Charitable Trusts revealed that more than 11 million metric tons of plastic get into our oceans every year. We all know disastrous environmental consequences ensue. Should we be anti-plastic, or make better decisions incrementally to help protect our earth? Incremental adjustments have success with proper planning. A glance around my desk shows nearly every item I touch has plastic components. Engineers are finding more innovative uses of plastic all the time. For example, 3D-printing in polymer plastic can make a violin for a fraction of the cost of a wooden instrument. That can open musical doors for many children who can’t afford to rent or buy a violin. Why all the plastic talk? It’s a long lead-in to Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, chapter six.

Paul wrote, ‘You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything.’ I wonder what Paul would say about our country’s dependence on plastics. Of course, we are allowed to use it, but it doesn’t mean it is always good for us. (That point applies to much more than plastic, but that’s for you to ponder later.) Whether we are living eco-friendly, moving toward it, or loving plastic, we need to follow Paul’s advice and plan for our physical and spiritual health, plus the health of God’s beautiful creation. Our bodies and our world belong to the Lord. Here’s to a new year of good choices! ~Tracy