10 In the Christian understanding of the world, the destiny of all creation is bound up with the mystery of Christ, present from the beginning: “All things have been created through him and for him” (Col 1”16) (99). We can direct our gaze to the end of time, when the Son will deliver all things to the Father (100) and yet, even now, everything we can contemplate and admire in nature is imbued with his radiant presence (100). Reflection, discussion and sharing: 1. Read, or re-read, Chapter 2 of Laudato Si’. Share with others two words which describe how this chapter touched your heart. 2. Are there any ways in which I can show more genuine care for my own life and the lives of those closest to me? 3. Spend some time, individually and as a community/family, devising some creative ways to take better care of our fragile world (e.g. our consumption choices, use of plastic, prayer, giving, etc.) 4. Heart spirituality requires that no one is excluded from our sincere love, and that this conviction should colour our way of living. Are there any individuals or groups for whom I lack tenderness, compassion or concern? Why? Spend some time in prayer, with an open heart, to listen and be open to what God is saying to you. 5. Like Jesus, who had a loving relationship with the world while on earth. spend some time in nature, being attentive to the beauty around you. Share this experience with another person. One person of the Trinity entered into the created cosmos, throwing in his lot with it, even to the cross (99). Jesus, risen and glorious, also had a tangible and loving relationship with the world (100). A prayer to pray individually or with others Tears of creation Lord Jesus, through Your incarnation You shared the tears of creation that “groans and suffers the pains of childbirth” (Romans 8:22) You made human fragility your own in climatic injustice, in our fears, and in our worries. When anguish tries to prevail over the oppressed peoples and over us, we ask You to bring Your loving presence to our hearts, in order to rediscover the purpose of our presence in the world. Amen Originally written in Italian by Miriam Resta Corrado, Laudato Si’ Animator. Supersano, Puglia, Italy. Source: Laudato Si’ Movement Prayer Book
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