Prayer Reflection

Tuesday, March 3 Is 1:10, 16-20/Mt 23:1-12 (231)

In today’s readings, the prophet Isaiah calls on the people to wash themselves clean of misdeeds, cease doing evil, and turn to doing good.   In the Gospel, Jesus chastises the Scribes and Pharisees for not practicing what they preach.

The Gospel Acclamation summarizes the readings well, “Cast away from you all the crimes you have committed…and make for yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.”

In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis calls for urgent action against environmental degradation and climate change. Responding to this call means shifting from a “throwaway culture” to sustainable “integral ecology” habits—in brief, reducing waste, reusing resources, protecting the vulnerable, and embracing ecological conversion.

Consider these key points for action on campus, at home, and in all areas of our lives.  First, standing against the “throwaway culture” includes minimizing waste, maximizing recycling, and avoiding unnecessary consumption.  What are some specific actions that would be good habits for you?

Second, embracing an “integral ecology” means recognizing that environmental damage directly affects the poor and vulnerable, and acting with social justice in mind.  Name some examples of this type of damage in recent history.  What action is possible?

Third, adopting sustainable habits means to support initiatives that work to implement concrete plans for ecological, social, and economic change.  What programs or groups could we support in this effort?

Fourth, cultivating ecological spirituality means practicing gratitude and stewardship, viewing creation as a gift to be protected rather than exploited.  How can we be grateful people who intentionally care for creation?

Lastly, engaging locally calls us to take action in our own communities, such as reducing energy consumption, planting, tending the earth, and fostering biodiversity. How can I be more engaged in my communities?