The changing of seasons throughout the year is always a reminder to us of the tremendous gift of creation God has given to us. Thinking especially of spring when the birds begin to sing and the flowers begin to blossom, the theme of new life is prominent. While in these instances creation and its resources stand out to us and we appreciate them, we have to ask ourselves how well we are caring for these gifts throughout the entire year. In Pope Francis’ popular encyclical letter Laudato Si’, we are reminded that creation is something God has given us and is calling us to continue to care for and nurture. One of the first things mentioned in the encyclical is the connection St. Francis of Assisi had with all of creation. Reflecting upon St. Francis of Assisi’s prayer Canticle of the Sun, we are reminded of the importance of all things found in nature, not just certain aspects. This prayer is the foundation of this encyclical letter. The Pope is calling us to a conversion of heart to better appreciate the gifts of the earth and to not take for granted the many gifts our common home provides for us. “We praise you, Lord, for Sister Earth, who sustains us with her fruits, colored flowers, and herbs.” Our common home is crucial to our survival, and as St. Francis points out in the Canticle of the Sun, it is the earth which sustains us with its resources.
One of the most difficult things for us to endure is change. We like to stay in our comfort zones and continue to do things the way we have always known and done them. Pope Francis in his encyclical is calling us to get out of our comfort zone and make adjustments to our current way of life as it is causing us to neglect our natural world. He writes: “We lack an awareness of our common origin, our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone.” Our common origin is the earth, it is where we are from and where we will return, as we hear in sacred scripture. “…you are dust and to dust you shall return,” (Genesis 3:19). We have a very close relationship with nature based on this short scripture quote. We share a creaturely membership not only with each other and other living beings, but also with the earth. We rely so heavily on its natural resources, that it becomes second nature to not think about replenishing the resources we take. As Pope Francis writes, “… our very bodies are made up of her elements, we breathe her air and we receive life and refreshment from her waters.” Pope Francis makes mention of the phrase “Ecological education.” This is something that should be taking place within families, catechesis, and in the media. When we begin to enlighten the minds of people to the deterioration of our earthly home, change has a better chance of being carried out. When we learn of the harm we have done over the years to the earth, we feel that call to change.
While this is an urgent issue facing society today, it is no reason to feel discouraged. As the Pope writes, “Human beings, while capable of the worst, are also capable of rising above themselves, choosing again what is good, and making a new start, despite their mental and social conditioning.” The Pope’s call to action is meant for all. It may seem like a daunting task to undertake, but it is important, as with all things, to first look within ourselves and see where we can change. As disciples of Christ Jesus, we place our trust in Him. As we live in this ever-evolving world, we ask our Heavenly Father to guide us in protecting and preserving his creation. As He tells us in the scriptures, “Behold, I make all things new,” (Revelation 21:5).
Nicholas Esposito
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