As you begin your retreat, take some time to quiet yourself. Pay attention to your breathing. Take some deep breaths, relax, and recognize God's presence all around you.
Genesis 1:28
God blessed them, saying: "Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth."
Dominion is not absolute power, nor does it convey a right to destroy. It is true that human beings have a special place in creation, but abuse and misuse of creation are not what God intends. We have a moral responsibility to use the resources of creation with care. As God cares and loves us through the wonder of creation, we should reflect that care in our relationship to the environment. All of creation is for all of humanity. Exploiting the created world separates us from God.
What can I do to reduce the waste of natural resources?
What can I do to encourage others to be good stewards of creation?
(Pray to the Creator with these words your own.)
Generous God, Creator of all, thank you for sustaining us with your creation. Help me to work in harmony with your spirit to care for this gift.
Amen.