September 5

Ps 104:6 You wrapped it with the depths like a cloak;

the waters stood higher than the mountains.

7 At your threat they took to flight;

at the voice of your thunder they fled.

Meditation

These various wounds are the effect of sin. This is surely not what God had in mind when he entrusted the earth to the men and women whom he created in his image (cf. Gen 1:24-29). The Bible provides no justification for us to exercise “tyranny over creation.".  On the contrary, “the biblical texts are to be read in their context, with an appropriate hermeneutic, recognizing that they tell us to ‘till and keep’ the garden of the world [cf. Gen 2:15]. ‘Tilling’ refers to cultivating, ploughing or working, while ‘keeping’ means caring, protecting, overseeing and preserving. This implies a relationship of mutual responsibility between human beings and nature.” (Pope Leo XIV)

Musical Selection (Doxecology)

Nature shines with beauty,
bringing us a revelation
of the Maker's glory,
leading us in adoration.

O God who made the stars
and formed us from the dust,
your plans are over ours
and all your ways are love.

Nature groans in labour,
longing for the revelation
of the Maker's children
on the day of liberation

Prayer