Reverencing & Restoration: Caring for Earth

SECOND SUNDAY

INTRODUCTION

In a collaborative effort with the staff of the Catholic Institute of Education in South Africa, we offer this resource as a compliment to the inserts prepared on the theme of Caring for Creation and Catholic Social Justice values.

This reflection guide contains separate reflections on the scripture readings for each of the five Sundays of Lent. Each reflection includes questions for reflection or discussion. The reflections focus on the issue of environmental justice. We are in a critical moment as the human family on planet Earth, and we need to reflect on how we relate in thought, word and deed to the Creation of which we are an integral part. We need a change of heart in order to realize deeply that "the fundamental relation between humanity and nature is one of caring for creation."1 That this is a key perspective of Christian faith is pointed out by Pope John Paul II: "Christians, in particular, realize that their responsibility within creation and their duty towards nature and the Creator are an essential part of their faith." 2

A printable PDF document of each week's reflection is available for download.

February 20, 2005 - Genesis 12: 1-4a, Psalm 32, 2Timothy 1: 8-10, Matthew 17:1-8

The readings last week presented us with a picture of the world we received from God at the beginning, followed by an abrupt account of the disorder that results from sin. Not even Jesus was exempt from experiencing the consequences of this disorder. We need a way out of the desperate situation the world is in and a way forward to its pristine integrity. The first reading this week invites us to set out on the journey that leads to reintegration and wholeness.

The call of Abram invites us to enter into the mystery of our lives. We are asked to turn our backs on the securities on which we have come to rely and to take the risk of venturing into unfamiliar territory. The route and the conditions of the road are not disclosed; even the destination rests only on a promise. Predictably, we will meet with situations that are seldom of our own making and over which we have no control. At such times, we need to have faith in the one who invites us and a willingness to respond positively to the guidance provided along the way.

On the human front, the social terrain is changing dramatically. Social institutions that formerly gave a measure of stability - including the Church - have been under pressure to re-form in order to respond to the challenges posed by modern times. God has entrusted this part of the human journey to the present generation but each person is asked to become involved as an agent of change within the circumstances of their own lives.

Christ pledges to be with us on all the stages of the journey and he makes his empowering and sustaining presence a visible reality in the celebration of the Eucharist. This presence is always instructive through the reading of the scriptures. From time to time, we catch glimpses of his divinity [Mt 17:1-8] - perhaps in prayer, or in a healing experience, or in dangers averted, or in an unexpected positive turn of events. These give us the assurance that we are on the right road. But, in making the journey, we need one another's support [2Tim 1:8-10]. Psalm 32 enjoins us to put our hope in God.

• The apostles were given a privileged vision of Christ. Our own encounters with him are usually less dramatic. Can you recall an occasion on which you became deeply aware of his presence?
• Can you identify circumstances in your life that indicate the 'shape' that your journey of faith may be taking? What risks are involved? Are you willing to take them? Why/why not?
• In the world, a meeting with the powerful often induces fear. Jesus appears here in power, but tells his disciples not to be afraid. Why is this? What does Jesus' way tell us about the right use of power?
• Power is widely misused in modern times. Identify some instances from your own experience. In what ways would it be possible for you to counter this tendency - with regard to the environment, for example? How could you resist economic practices that contribute to the poverty and powerlessness of so many people?
  

1 US Catholic Bishops.1991. Renewing the Earth
2John Paul II.1990. Peace With God The Creator, Peace With All Of Creation: Message for the World Day of Peace.

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Last updated February 11, 2005
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