A new perspective
Everywhere we look, we see elements of God’s creation –
trees, animals, streams, oceans, the stars, and more. What
parts of God’s natural world do you see around you right
now? As children of creation, we are called to love and care
for all its many elements. The Season of Creation is a time
to focus on the beauty and intricacy of God’s creation and
be sure we don’t take it for granted.
It’s appropriate that at the same time we are cultivating
an outlook of creation that is holistic and not human-centric;
we explore God’s divine wisdom in creation. God created a
world that is interconnected, joined together in a complex
web of related parts. God holds all these things together –
and expects us to help. We live in a world affected by global
warming, overconsumption, and pollution from fossil fuels.
Our actions have had dire consequences for our planet. We
should work with creation to protect and conserve it, not
ignore or abuse it.
The Season of Creation readings invite us into
relationship with the natural elements that surround us.
God shows us how creation works, how it flows and moves
around us every day. The psalmist praises God and tells us
that God reigns over all creation: “Let them praise the name
of God, for God’s name alone is exalted; God’s glory is
above earth and heaven” (Psalm 148:13 The New Testament
and Psalms: An Inclusive Version).
We sometimes lose sight of the importance of creation
in our lives. We take for granted God’s divine wisdom
in creation – the elements of creation that work together
perfectly to sustain all life. During this season we can adapt
a new perspective and practice – honouring and caring for
all creation.
For Reflection:
■■How do you experience God in nature?
■■What do you take for granted about the creation that
surrounds you?
■■In what ways might you explore more of God’s natural
world on your own or with your family and friends
this month?
Creation Time is celebrated during the first
four Sundays of September leading up to the feast of
St. Francis of Assisi, October 4. St. Francis honoured
and respected creation through the way that he lived,
a model for each one of us today. Sundays this year are
Ocean, Flora and Fauna, Storm, and Cosmos.
Copyright © Wood Lake Publishing Inc. 2012 Seasons of the Spirit™ SeasonsFUSION Season of Creation • Pentecost 2 2013, p. 15
