The “reckless love of God” that we reflected on yesterday extends to all of HIs creation — the animals, the vegetation, the water, the air, etc., and we are called to extend our love to them too. Everything that God created reflects God in its own unique way. If only we could see all of creation through God’s eyes.

In Genesis 1, God calls humanity to love and care for the Earth and its creatures. Sadly, our role as human beings in caring for the Earth has been misunderstood throughout the ages. In the past, many interpreted some of the biblical verses to mean that human beings could do as they please with the other life on Earth. As a result, we have not been very good stewards of God’s creation.

Pope Francis explains in his encyclical On Care For Our Common Home, that a more accurate and appropriate biblical interpretation reveals our responsibility to care for those creatures that are more vulnerable than we are. He explains, “Each community can take from the bounty of the earth whatever it needs for subsistence, but it also has the duty to protect the earth and to ensure its fruitfulness for coming generations.” With greater power comes greater responsibility.

Today, reflect on ways that you may simplify your life so that your actions may heal and not further wound our beautiful planet and it’s precious creatures.

• Pray the Advent Prayer.

• Click the first video below for today’s video reflection.

• Prayerfully read Wisdom 11:24-26 and Genesis 2:15 AND-OR click the second video below for a video reflection that also includes Bible verses.

• If you desire more material for reflection, you may choose to read Birds of a Feather sometime today.

• Pray for the grace of understanding your part in caring for our planet and all of God’s creation.

Video 1 Song: Creation Hymn

Video 2: Christian Reflections on Care for Planet Earth