The Value of Creatures

The Bible mentions animals a number of times.  I wondered if alligators were mentioned.  I did a little research and came upon verses in the books of Genesis, Leviticus, and Psalms.  One translation mentions a “land crocodile,” which people were instructed not to eat.  Several mentions are of a Leviathan, which is supposed to be a crocodile.  It symbolizes a struggle, something for a person to fight.  Also, the Bible states that humankind is to have “dominion” over all plants and animals on Earth.  I believe this means different things to different people.  I personally feel like humans are to be good stewards of creation.  We may have power over it, but it is in our best interest to use our power wisely.  Conservation and preservation are passions of mine.  Not only is it kind and respectful to treat nature well, but we depend on all of it to live.  To me, “dominion” means being good caretakers.  We don’t merely own and rule over all living things.  Creation is a gift to us.  We must cherish it.  As human development grows and people encroach on wild habitats, there is an increased need for coexistence.  Wild spaces should be preserved, too.  Alligators and crocodiles are predatory species that keep the ecosystems they inhabit in check and in balance.  Recently, I learned a cool fact about a rainforest ecosystem off the coast of North America.  Eagles catch salmon and deposit their remains in the forest.  As the fish decompose, they provide nutrients to the soil for the trees that grow there.  This is a prime example of the value of every living thing.  I cringe when people say they don’t like alligators!  You don’t have to think they are pretty to respect and value them.  (But I do!)