Jesus asked Philip, “Where can we buy enough food to feed all these people?” –John 6:5
Buying Local: A Christian Way to Care for Creation
As Christians, we are called to care for God’s creation and love our neighbors. One simple way to do both is by buying local food and reducing food miles—the distance food travels from farms to our plates. The farther food has to travel, the more fuel is burned, adding pollution to the air and harming the environment.
Think about it: when we buy imported apples instead of locally grown ones, those apples may have traveled thousands of kilometers by plane, truck, or ship. That means more carbon emissions, more pollution, and more harm to God’s creation. But when we buy from local farmers and markets, we support our communities, reduce pollution, and enjoy fresher, healthier food.
Jesus often used farming and food in His teachings. He understood the value of the land and the people who worked it. Supporting local farmers means valuing the hands that grow our food and making sure they earn a fair living. It’s also a way of showing gratitude for God’s provision.
So how can we take action? Choose fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms. Shop at farmers’ markets or support local food businesses. Every choice we make matters. You can help to support a local family by buying from them.
By buying local, we reduce waste, protect the planet, and honor God’s gift of creation. It’s a simple but powerful way to live out our faith and make a real difference in the world around us.