This article reports on a collection of microecological and macroecological insights that emerged from extended conversations between Calvin University professors David Warners, a botanist concentrating in restoration ecology, and John Wertz, a micro-biologist specializing in microbial ecology. Classic descriptions of ecology identify biological interactions as happening at the ecosystem, community, or population level. And yet, ecological interactions are very much occurring at the microbial level as well. Furthermore, microbial-level interactions frequently influence the quality and character of macroecological relationships and vice versa. Allowing ecological principles to be applied across all life forms broadens our comprehension of interactions that are happening throughout creation. And when we consider macroecological principles for microbial ecosystems, we quickly see the importance of cultivating healthy microbial interactions to promote healthy macrobiological populations, communities, and ecosystems. *Using a case study that has emerged over the course of a decade, this article describes reciprocal understandings that arise when the subdisciplines of ecology and micro-biology avail themselves to each other. Reflecting the perichoresis of the Creator God, these understandings elicit theological insights for (1) living in ways that protect and promote balanced relationships (between us and our microbiome, within macro-ecosystems, and with one another); (2) acknowledging that humans have been abusive in their relationship with nonhuman creation, pursuing selfish gains at great cost to creation’s well-being; (3) recognizing that as embedded rulers of creation our responsibility is to ensure the thriving of our co-creatures; and (4) realizing humans are part of, not outside, God’s general revelation. These insights shed fresh light on how we can better live within and care for God’s expansive, beautiful creation at all levels.
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