September 3, 2023

Sister Evangeline Salazar, OSB shares a reflection on the scripture readings: Jeremiah 20:7-9; Psalm 63; Romans 12:1-2; Matthew 16:21-27

SEASON OF CREATION

As Catholics

responding to the Pope’s invitation,

we celebrate

a season of creation.

The call is to everyone,

into an extensive coordinated action

to address

the complex socio-ecological crisis

facing the Earth today.

And to restore

reverent respect and care

for the sacredness of creation.

In the increasing destructive impacts

of changing climate

and the ecological degradation,

might the Earth

be trying to show us

what Jesus was trying to tell his disciples

in today’s gospel?

Increased suffering and even death

are before us.

And in that suffering and death,

the results of our sinful actions and neglect

are being exposed.

The light is being shed,

on the conversion so desperately needed

and on the paths of redemption

and healing

that are still open to us.

We have seen,

and we have heard,

of worsening storms, wildfires, droughts, floods,

and heat waves.

And still we doubt.

And fail to accept the truth.

We fail to hear the voice,

of Mother Earth

crying out to us.

Jesus says to Peter,

“You are thinking not as God thinks,

but as human beings do.”

God let’s us see what’s happening,

in all its cruel brutality.

Having seen the truth,

we must act.

To change.

To find new ways

to avoid the suffering

and destruction

of our Mother Earth.

Together we can help create

a more Godlike,

healthy,

sustainable,

nonviolent

and loving world.

Let us accept the invitation.

to enter the Christian adventure with counterculture passion.