Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church
When I hike amidst the tall pine trees or the thick tropical trees of the rainforest, I am filled with awe and wonder at the beauty of creation. Today’s first reading reminds us that God has given all of this beauty to us. How often do we take time to be grateful for these gifts and to be mindful of how we are caring for these treasures?
The reading from Isaiah proclaims how God will manifest power and compassion through the outpouring of water to create new life. Rivers will open up, deserts turn into marshland, and springs of water will cover dry ground. This overflowing of water will allow cedars, acacia, myrtle and olive trees to grow where there was nothing. God provides these blessings, and God wants everyone to understand that “the Holy One of Israel has created it.” God’s generous and abundant love is revealed through this new life. God wants His people to know that God will come to them in their need, and there is no need to fear.
As I reflect on this passage, I am reminded that creation is a gift and one that manifests God’s deep love for us. The diversity, beauty and benefits of nature fill me with awe and wonder, but I realize that I oftentimes take these treasures for granted. This reading makes me stop and think particularly about trees and what they provide for us- wood for building, shade, food, oxygen, absorption of carbon dioxide, support for the wildlife, water conservation and beauty. Because they are so common, we forget to recognize the value they have, and we do not remember the God who created them. Today this reading is reminding me that God wants me (us) to know and see and observe and understand all that the hand of the LORD has done for us.
Not only does this awareness of God’s gifts inspire gratitude, but it also calls forth a need to care and preserve what God has given us. One of our Catholic Social teachings is the care for creation. Pope Francis offers great insights into our role in caring for creation: “Nurturing and cherishing creation is a command God gives not only at the beginning of history, but to each of us. It is part of his plan; it means causing the world to grow responsibly, transforming it so that it may be a garden, a habitable place for everyone.” (General Audience World Environmental Day)
This scripture calls me to renew my commitment towards protecting the environment and the created world. I think that many people feel overwhelmed with the idea of climate change. They make minimal steps towards improvement because they do not think these small actions matter. And yet I believe that God calls us to do what we can to make a difference. Here are just a few ideas on how we can care for creation: turn off the lights when not needed, conserve water, composting, use reusable bags when shopping, shop at thrift stores, carpool if possible, and plant a tree. When we become aware of God’s blessings and grateful for these gifts, then we can live out our faith through actions that help the common good. If many people live in this same way of thanksgiving and intervention, then those many small deeds will add up, and we can help create that garden that Pope Francis talks about for us and for future generations.
Loving God, You have given us creation as a sign of your care and protection. Send down Your Spirit so we can see your handiwork and gratefully care for world around us. May our faith help us live in ways that give you glory. We pray with Christ, our LORD. AMEN