Daily Reading: 15 May
(from www.christianaid.org.uk)
Creation day seven
Something to read
'Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all their multitude. And on the seventh day God finished the work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all the work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that he had done in creation.'
- Genesis 2: 1-3.
Reflect
God rests when the work of creating is done. In the Sabbath, we find a radical alternative to the current economic thirst for more. The Sabbath emphasises the need for restoration for people and the Earth.
Rosalia (featured yesterday) understands this need to restore the land. She has planted 120 trees. ‘Now that we have a waterpoint nearby, even children can come and fetch water,’ she says. ‘The grandchildren grow trees at home.’
Respond
Where are your nearest trees? Do you appreciate them for their rootedness, shelter and habitat?
We often seek rest and relaxation in nature. As well as admiring the beauty of creation, how might our rest help restore the Earth?
The trees of the Bible, from the garden of Genesis to the city of Revelation, take on renewed significance in this era of climate emergency. This year, Christian Aid is focusing on climate justice. You can find our climate justice worship resources at caweek.org/resources.
For the past seven days, we have journeyed from awe to lament, from hope to joy, and we’ve had the chance to respond by generously giving, prophetically taking action, and persistently praying for climate justice.
Thank you for your prayers, gifts and actions. Thank you for your hope, courage and determination. Or as our friends in Kenya say: ‘Asante Sana’ (‘Thank you very much’ in Kiswahili).
Prayer
God of the Sabbath, forgive us for ignoring the rhythms of nature for overextending the Earth and each other. Instil in us sustainable ways of resting and enjoying the goodness of creation, and protecting the Earth with all our sisters and brothers. Amen.