Today’s readings take us from creation to the experience of Jesus as God and human.

The first reading on the story of creation is lovely to read and poetic in the descriptions like this one: “Let there be lights in the dome of the sky, to separate day from night. Let them mark the fixed times, the days and the years, and serve as luminaries in the dome of the sky, to shed light upon the earth.” 

The story reminds us that there is God in all things. We need to be good stewards of this earth and all living plants and animals. Our care for each other is mirrored in that message. When I do what I can to make the world a better place, I am echoing God’s stewardship and it is good. Let me remember this story of creation when I am about to be careless about the earth or people. Let me find God in all things.

The Gospel shows us God on earth in Jesus. What faith the people had to bring their sick and hope that they could just touch the tassel on Jesus’ cloak and be made well. What I have to remember is that I, too, am loved by Jesus. When I get discouraged or feel the world is overwhelming, my faith may waver. That’s the time when I need to remember that tassel on Jesus’ cloak. I can remember that God is with me and cares for me. I can ask for grace for patience and peace. And I can find both, at least for a time, if I reach for that tassel and open my heart to God’s grace. I can pray, along with today’s psalm, “May the Lord be glad in his works” and know that those works include me.