Conclusions
In light of the present realities of economic injustice and environmental degradation, Christians must take on the responsibility given them by their sacred texts and face the tragic truth that we have not yet lived up to our roles as stewards of God's Creation. In the rich language of the Jubilee tradition we can find both an affirmation of our identity as a chosen people and of God's gift of the land, the planet Earth. We can see through the lens of Leviticus 25 that our abuse of resources and incessant consumption are not a part of the true affluence God designed for us in Eden. God's affluence can be born out of love and nurturance in community and the protection and preservation of the world for future generations.
Theologians take various approaches to texts dealing with Jubilee and to economic ethics, but their voices together can guide Christians towards both an appreciation for the abundance of Creation and an acceptance of the responsibility that humans have as its current caretakers. Christians and churches must become leaders in taking up the tasks of good stewardship while working to effect changes in the system that minimize injustice and support sustainable, respectful relationships.
Whether Jubilee was ever fully practiced or whether it ever can be are not the important concerns. The need for Jubilee is visible everywhere. Human life has never been about attaining perfection, just reaching for it. Because of this, Christians seeking to live up to God's calling will continue reaching into the far distance, hoping for what is still unseen. In the meantime, every step closer to life in true community where all of Creation is nourished and honored is cause for jubilation, indeed.
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