Good Stewards of the Earth
Contributions to Rivers of the World (ROW) have enabled us to support a laboratory in Lima, Peru where research is being conducted to reduce the threat of Malaria by getting rid of mosquitoes. Scientists have discovered a fascinating way to kill mosquito larvae without harming the environment.
The effects of Malaria is a real threat to people in this part of the world, who may experience fever, chills, nausea, muscle pain, and even death. The use of pesticides to control disease-carrying mosquitoes is not a healthy option for these delicate jungle environments. Instead, researchers have found naturally occurring bacterium that is harmless to humans and animals, but kills the mosquito larvae.
The bacteria are actually commercially available, but its cost can be prohibitive for developing countries. A team of researchers at the University of Peru developed an inexpensive way to produce the bacteria by growing it in coconuts.
A small amount of the bacteria is dropped through a hole drilled in a coconut. The hole is then plugged and the bacteria then reproduce inside the coconut. After a few days, the coconuts are opened and poured into a mosquito-infested pond. The mosquito larvae eat the bacteria, which in turn kills the larvae by destroying its stomach lining.
The children in these remote Peruvian villages are being taught this technique of inoculating coconuts in order to reduce the threat of Malaria.
God not only created mankind, the air we breathe, the water we drink and all the animals that roam the face of the earth, He also created this unique bacterium which is reducing the spread of Malaria in remote jungle areas.
Our Lord has also instilled in us the wisdom and knowledge to discover answers to our problems in the environment in which we live. After God created Adam and Eve, He gave them dominion over the earth and instructed them to:
“Subdue it (using all its vast resources in the service of God and man); and have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and over every living creature that moves upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:28 Amplified Bible)
Let us go forth today and be good stewards of the earth that God created for humankind to enjoy for a season.
