The BEMA Podcast 491: Sandra Richter — Abigail and the Waterfall
Jan 8, 2026
Sandra Richter, Gundry Chair of Biblical Studies and author of Abigail and the Waterfall, joins the conversation with insights on environmental theology and stewardship. She discusses the importance of Sabbath as a foundation for ecological health and highlights how marginalized communities suffer most from environmental harm. Sandra reflects on her experiences in Appalachia and the impact of short political cycles on long-term stewardship. She emphasizes engaging the younger generation and calls for a shift in how Christians approach environmental issues amidst political polarization.
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Church As A Sleeping Giant
- The church is the most powerful social reform force on earth when awakened to its responsibility.
- Sandra Richter argues mobilizing faith communities could substantially change environmental outcomes.
Use Sabbath Restraint For Creation Care
- Practice Sabbath restraint as an environmental ethic by stopping consumption at least one day a week.
- Richter says this posture of restraint addresses greed, the root of many ecological harms.
Think Beyond Election Cycles
- Short-term political cycles undermine long-term environmental stewardship.
- Richter notes Scripture teaches multi-generational thinking, contrasting modern election-focused leadership.
