NBVM Novena Day 4: A Scriptural Perspective on Caring for Nature
On Day 4 of the Novena in honour of our Blessed Mother, Fr Ryan Innas Muthu preached on caring for creation, using scripture as a guide.
“Nature is God’s gift to us, and we’ve been entrusted with its care,” he began, drawing attention to our sacred responsibility toward the environment. Fr Ryan highlighted two key Biblical passages that emphasise the relationship between humanity and nature.
1. We are stewards of God’s creation
Genesis chapters 1 and 2 narrate how God created the world and entrusted it to humanity. After creating the heavens, the earth, and all living creatures, God declared them “good” and handed every living thing on earth over to Adam and Eve, representing all of humanity. While we are given dominion over the earth, this doesn’t mean exploitation—it means stewardship. We’re called to nurture and protect God’s creation, keeping it in harmony.
2. Creation suffers due to human sin
The fall of man, as seen in Genesis 3, disrupts this harmony. Because of sin, not only is the relationship between God and humanity broken, but so is our connection with nature. Some of humankind’s sinful acts towards creation include, pollution, wastage, and overdevelopment. These acts further lead to natural disasters, poverty, sickness, and even death.
Through these scriptural perspectives, we see that caring for nature is not merely an environmental duty but also a moral and spiritual one. Fr Ryan went on to share several practical ways, inspired by scripture, that we can honour our duty towards creation:
1. Practice stewardship
“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to till it and keep it.” (Genesis 2:15) We are called to “till and keep” the garden. We all have a responsibility to protect nature. Small acts—reducing waste, conserving water, and using eco-friendly products—make a difference. One could also initiate gotong-royong activities not just in the parish but also in our own housing communities. As Christians, we must lead the way.
2. Respect God’s creation
“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it.” (Psalm 24:1) Each day, take a moment to reflect on the beauty around you. Reflecting on creation leads us to the Creator, our Heavenly Father. In reflecting, we acknowledge that creation is not for us to toy with according to our whims and fancies; instead, we are to honour God by respecting and caring for His creation. Protecting biodiversity and showing respect for all living beings is a profound expression of our reverence towards God.
3. Promote justice and equality
“The land shall not be sold in perpetuity, for the land is mine; with me you are but aliens and tenants.” (Leviticus 25:23) The resources of the earth are meant for everyone, not just for the wealthy or powerful. Let’s ensure that our use of land and resources doesn’t marginalise others, but shares the abundance God has given us.
4. Educate the next generation
Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.” (Proverbs 22:6) It’s our duty to pass on the values of environmental stewardship to our children. If we teach them to care for the earth now, they will carry that responsibility into the future.
5. Pray and intercede
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6) Bring all things to God in prayer. This includes praying for the well-being of the environment and our world. Through prayer and intercession, we ask for guidance and strength to fulfil our responsibilities as stewards of creation.
Fr Ryan concluded his homily by reflecting on the day’s Gospel (Luke 4:16–30), where Jesus announces His identity and mission as the Messiah who will bring freedom and liberation. This mission is not just for people but also for all of creation, which suffers due to human wrongdoing. Jesus came to reconcile us not only with God but also with nature. When we take care of the earth, it takes care of us in return.