When Jesus tells us that we, “…know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky,” I can’t help but think about climate change. We know that a cloud indicates rain and a southerly wind (in ancient Palestine) indicates hot weather. We can recognize the signs, but we sometimes prefer to ignore or dismiss the signs. We know human activity has contributed to a warming climate, which has increased the intensity and frequency of droughts, hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. But many of us want to ignore the signs of climate change. Jesus asked, “Why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” Today, Jesus might ask, “Why do you ignore the signs of the present time?”
For many of us, admitting the reality of climate change demands a change of heart. We can no longer continue with a selfish “business as usual” lifestyle. Instead, we must learn to live more sustainably. We must learn to live lives that are in harmony with God’s Creation. To paraphrase St. Paul in today’s first reading, we must, “Live in a manner worthy of the call [we] have received, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another [and with Creation] through love, striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace.” Instead, many resist the reality of climate change and continue harmful practices that hurt God’s Creation and our common home. As I re-read today’s Gospel, I better understand Jesus’ frustration.
When Jesus proclaims the Good News, many of us want to ignore or dismiss his words. For many, admitting the reality of God’s love demands a change of heart. We can no longer continue a selfish “business as usual” lifestyle. Instead, we must learn to live in gratitude and contentment for what God has given us. We must learn to care and love for one another and for God’s Creation. We must learn to trust in God’s love and allow God to change our hearts.
We know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. We can see the signs that indicate the harm humanity inflicts upon our common home. We also see the signs of God’s love, and we know the Gospel message of God’s love for everyone. Will we ignore it? Or will we allow it to change our hearts?
Rev. John Shea, SJ
I grew up in Cleveland, Ohio and first met the Jesuits as an undergraduate majoring in biology at John Carroll University. My experience of doing the Spiritual Exercises in my senior year influenced my later decision to join the Jesuits after graduating from The Ohio State University with a PhD in Evolutionary Biology in 2003. As a Jesuit, I have taught Parasitology, Zoology, Ecology, and Science and Religion. After my ordination in 2014, I came to Creighton to teach in the Biology Department.
In addition to my passion for parasites, I enjoy Doctor Who, hiking in the great outdoors, and praying with God’s word. I look forward to finding and sharing the graces from the daily readings with Creighton’s extensive on-line community.
