“LAUDATO SI” AND THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the heavens, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas. (Psalm 8:6-8)
Many things have to change course, but it is we human beings above all who need to change. We lack an awareness of our common origin, of our mutual belonging, and of a future to be shared with everyone. This basic awareness would enable the development of new convictions, attitudes and forms of life. A great cultural, spiritual and educational challenge stands before us, and it will demand that we set out on the long path of renewal. (cf. No. 202)
We need to change and develop new convictions, attitudes and forms of life, including a new lifestyle. This requires not only individual conversion, but also community networks to solve the complex situation facing our world today. Essential to this is a spirituality that can motivate us to a more passionate concern for the protection of our world. Christian spirituality proposes a growth and fulfillment marked by moderation and the capacity to be happy with little. Love, overflowing with small gestures of mutual care, is also civic and political, and it makes itself felt in every action that seeks to build a better world.
Change is a dynamic tool which must be seen from its upward adjustment or the positive aspect of change. Change can also be retrogression. Here, our focus is to make the world a better place by employing the positive aspect of change. Change therefore, must be seen in areas such that change must be (towards):
1. Towards a new lifestyle: Changes in lifestyle and consumer choices can bring much “pressure to bear on those who wield political, economic and social power”. If we can overcome individualism, we will truly be able to develop an alternative lifestyle and bring about significant changes in society. (cf. No. 206-208).
2. Educating for the covenant between humanity and the environment: It is able to affect daily actions and habits, the reduction of water consumption and focus on conservation, the sorting of waste and even “turning off unnecessary lights” (cf. No. 211).
3. Ecological conversion: Faith and Christian spirituality offer profound motivations toward “a more passionate concern for the protection of our world”, following the example of St Francis of Assisi. Ecological conversion implies gratitude and generosity and develops creativity and enthusiasm (cf. No.216-220).
4. Joy and peace:, “happiness means knowing how to limit some needs which only diminish us, and being open to the many different possibilities which life can offer”. “One expression of this attitude is when we stop and give thanks to God before and after meals”. (cf. No. 221-227)
5. Civic and political love: “An integral ecology is also made up of simple daily gestures which break with the logic of violence, exploitation and selfishness”. With its civic and political dimensions, “love for society and commitment to the common good are outstanding expressions” of charity. (cf. No. 228-233)
6. Sacramental signs and the celebration of rest: We encounter God not only in intimacy, but also in the contemplation of creation which bears a sign of his mystery. The Sacraments show, in a privileged way, how nature was assumed by God. In particular, the Eucharist joins heaven and earth; it embraces and penetrates all creation. Thus, the Eucharist is also a source of light and motivation for our concerns for the environment, directing us to be stewards of all creation. (cf. No. 236)
Our struggles and concerns do not take away the joy of hope, because in the heart of this world, the Lord of life, who loves us so much, is always present and his love always compels us to search for new ways.
Mary, who cares for Jesus, now lives with him and is Mother and Queen of all creation. At her side, Joseph appears in the Gospel as a just man and worker, full of the tenderness of one who is truly strong. Both can teach and motivate us to protect this world that God has given us. What change are you bringing onboard?
To Be Continued…
Mary, Queen of The Apostles, Pray for us!!
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