Invasive Species - Pt 1

And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the livestock according to their kinds, and everything that creeps on the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. (Genesis 1:24-25 ESV).

I am always amazed by the differences in our world. We are spending a few days with our children and grandchildren in Florida. They list on the Southeastern coastline. The weather is always warm and predominantly sunny. In fact, when we left Texas the temperature was 28 degrees and overcast. After a few hours by plane we arrive in Ft. Lauderdale to be greeted by 85 degrees and sunny. Because Florida’s climate is so hospitable, invasive species cause more of a crisis here than anywhere else in the continental United States. The fact that Florida serves as point of entry for almost three-fourths of the plants imported into the U.S. and the majority of the world reptile trade compounds the problem. It has created a significant problem for the state. Feral pigs churn up natural environments like a plow. Spectacular-looking lionfish along the coast voraciously devour baby reef fish. The Iguana was non-existent in the state just a few decades ago. Now they can be seen on the banks of every canal sunning themselves lazily by the water. They are much more than a mere nuisance. Even the invasive vegetation has become a problem. Old World climbing fern fronds, up to 125-feet long, smother everything beneath them. Invasive, non-native species such as these cause serious damage when introduced to Florida’s natural lands. Indeed, the threat they pose is second only to the direct destruction of habitats through development. All of Florida’s native habitats, marine, freshwater and terrestrial are threatened by invasive species. Our reading today tells us every creature was good before the sin of man. Every creature had a purpose that was good. Since they eat vegetation they are a primary source for the dispersal of seed in the propagation of the various trees and shrubs they prefer. They are also an important source of food in the natural habitat for carnivorous animals. I find it very instructive that the source of death and destruction falls squarely on the shoulders of man. Studies reveal in the case of most invasives in Florida (as with other states also) the iguana was introduced by people. I’ve not read anyone who indicates it was an intentional act. People who no longer wanted their “pets” simply released them into the wild and they flourished. Man’s disobedience to God is often like that. We may not intend to sin, but we simply ignore the possible consequences. Tragically, we even blame God for them. Perhaps we need to look at our lives more closely and turn to the One who can restore “good” in our lives and world!