Rejoice

Reduce, reuse and recycle. This has been the battlecry for environmentalists. Now as Christian environmentalists, I suggest we add one more 'R' word to that slogan.

Reduce, reuse, recycle...and rejoice.

Today, rejoice in creation. God's glory is revealed in nature. He is witnessing about Himself in every leaf, every cloud, every flower, every tree, every animal and every insect. God created Nature because it pleases him. That is why nature is so beautiful. No simple and yet so complex all at once. Just take a walk outside at least once today. Notice how green the grass is. There is even beauty in a cloudy, rainy day. Or in a violent storm. Or in the still pure snow. (At least in some parts of the country still)

And when you go out to rejoice in creation, remember what it says in Psalm 46:10 (NRSV)

"Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth."

And if you'd like something to futher help you rejoice about God's creation, keep this canticle of Saint Francis of Assisi close to your heart (or in your wallet).

"Most high, all powerful, all good Lord!All praise is yours, all glory, all honor, and all blessing.
To you, alone, Most High, do they belong.No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name.
Be praised, my Lord, through all your creatures,especially through my lord Brother Sun,who brings the day; and you give light through him.And he is beautiful and radiant in all his splendor!Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness.
Be praised, my Lord, through Sister Moon and the stars;in the heavens you have made them bright, precious and beautiful.
Be praised, my Lord, through Brothers Wind and Air,and clouds and storms, and all the weather,through which you give your creatures sustenance.
Be praised, My Lord, through Sister Water;she is very useful, and humble, and precious, and pure.
Be praised, my Lord, through Brother Fire,through whom you brighten the night.He is beautiful and cheerful, and powerful and strong.
Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth,who feeds us and rules us,and produces various fruits with colored flowers and herbs.
Be praised, my Lord, through those who forgive for love of you;through those who endure sickness and trial.
Happy those who endure in peace,for by you, Most High, they will be crowned.
Be praised, my Lord, through our Sister Bodily Death,from whose embrace no living person can escape.Woe to those who die in mortal sin!Happy those she finds doing your most holy will.The second death can do no harm to them.
Praise and bless my Lord, and give thanks,and serve him with great humility."