Children would admire natural beauty, they are fascinated by small insects, birds and pools of water after a rain. Why do we lose this innocent appreication of the beauty around us? As we celebrate the feast of St Francis of Assisi, let us strive to become more aware and grateful for the wonderful creation that sustains us. The world is facing an ecological crisis today.

As we read the Parable of the Good Samaritan, perhaps the Lord wants us to become the Good Samaritan to our environment. Do I waste God-given resources? Do I stock up food and water, not caring about the needs of my neighbours? The need of the hour is that we all get together and become true Christians in all aspects of our lives.

It is not simply external rituals, but internalizing Jesus’ message which calls us to conversion and love. We are all called to this vocation to love everyone and everything around us. We may fail, but let us keep trying. God’s grace will always be there for us.

Prayer: Abba Father, I thank you for the beauty of creation, help me to be a good steward of creation. Amen.