In this second week of the new year, we are called to look behind and ahead to all the ways in which we, and our world, are watched over by God. The verses below from Psalm 104 exemplify this, showing us that God is as intimately interested in the watering of the trees, as God is in the feeding of the cattle, and the nourishment of God’s people, all the way to the merriment and strengthening of the human heart.
All of this God sets in motion at the dawn of creation, then set within the world stewards – that’s us – to care for creation and be partners in the work. The turning of the seasons, the passing of the years, these are things beyond our control and influence, but how we treat the land on which we live and the creatures with whom we live can have a great impact on the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. We see this lived out in climate change, stronger hurricanes and storms, as well as diminished yields of crops in many parts of the world.
Let us give thanks for the ways in which God works in and through the systems and cycles of the world, and let us pray for guidance in our work as stewards of this place that we call home.
Let us pray
Psalm 104:14-16
You cause the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for people to use,to bring forth food from the earth, and wine to gladden the human heart, oil to make the face shine, and bread to strengthen the human heart. The trees of the Lord are watered abundantly, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
Holy One, you set creation on its way and moved in and through it by your Spirit to coax live to move and flourish. Amidst this great tapestry you set us as partners in the work of caring for creation. Inspire and guide our hands and feet to love deeply what you have created. Remind us that each part of creation is connected, that where one is diminished, all are diminished, and where one is exalted, all are exalted. Help us always to be caring stewards of the gift that we have been given. In Christ’s name we offer this and ask our prayers. AMEN