Mercy for the bleeding Earth.

What does the healing of a bleeding woman and a dead girl have to do with caring for our planet? More than you might think.

In this episode, we dive into Matthew 9:9–13 and 9:18–26 – a passage where Jesus declares, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” On the surface, these verses are about outcasts being restored to community. But when we listen with World Environment Day in mind, a surprising connection emerges.

We explore a simple but profound idea: the natural world is given to us for the fulfillment of our sustenance and need, not as a commodity to be used up. It keeps us connected to God.

From that starting point, we ask:

• How does treating creation as a “sacrifice” damage our own souls?
• What would it mean to offer the earth mercy instead of exploitation?
• Why your home environment – your room, your yard, your local stream – is actually liturgical space that shapes your relationship with God.

Using the vivid images of the bleeding woman touching Jesus’ cloak and the dead girl being raised, we reframe environmental care as an act of restoration, not guilt. 

Whether you’re passionate about creation care or feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental problems, this episode offers a gentle, spiritually grounded way forward. No politics. No shame. Just a call to touch the “fringe” of God’s presence – starting right where you live.

“She touched the fringe of his cloak – and was healed. Perhaps the earth is that fringe.”