1.

The Book of Genesis is an essential source for reflection on creation and its place in
God’s created order. How have I understood this text in the past? How might I read it differently
with a new awareness of a sacramental view of creation with God as creator and sustainer of
ALL life, ALL creation?

From the very first line, the book of Genesis tells us of God and all the wonderful things He has
done. Genesis sets the stage for creation of the universe and everything that resides in it. How we
view our past can affect our future and to me a future without God is no future at all. When
forming a view of the world and how it was made, we must turn to the Bible and see what is
written. What is put in scripture and what the world tries to tell us can shape every aspect of our
lives. Our world view can have an effect on everything from our own identity, our personal
relationships and even how we function in our society.

When I was 4 years old I have already memorized the verse Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning God
created the heavens and the earth.” I just memorized it I did not put in my heart unto it. Then I
pictured God as a superhero that has powers to do such acts. As I reflect, I thought I’d share
some of the things that I marvel about. First the importance of purpose it’s very clear that God
had exactly in mind what he wanted to do. He created man male and female in his image but
before he created them; he had a purpose in mind: He knew exactly what he wanted to do, he
knew what he want out of this creation, then after this is the plan: he created everything else that
man will need be it the earth and everything in it. Then the purpose determines the design of
man. And God formed man male from the ground: therefore its important to always note that our
purpose in life determines our design why we are who we are and this explains our nature. But
then if this is true, why is life not like a math problem?  Won’t it be easy if we know exactly
what we are on to? But then it hit me. Life is like a story; and to every story unfolds part by part.
And God is the Grand master. The story teller and to every story there is a plot look at
Abraham’s, Isaac, and Jacob. There lives each have a distinct purpose and God revealed the
purpose to them all. So to this I say my friends please know your purpose as you unfold the parts
to your story in life. It makes it easier than been confused and running around. Look at your own
longings and aspirations and also listen to the deep themes of your own story which is only
possible through an intimate relationship with God.

2. How are we to fulfill God’s call to be stewards of creation in an age when we may have
the capacity to alter that creation significantly and perhaps irrevocably?

‘We are stewards of God’s creation’ that is, creation is God’s. As part of the created order,
humans’ relationship with the rest of creation comes from God’s determination and decision
about that relationship. Humans have no innate ownership of creation. Rather, the Creator owns
creation. Humanity has been given a very important role in the created order, but the Scriptures
are clear that God has ownership over creation. Humanity’s role with regard to creation must be
discerned from the first principle: that God is owner. Humanity inhabits creation, but it is not
ours. I believe the response to global climate change could be a sign of the respect for God's
creation.

Global climate is by its very nature a part of the planetary commons. The Earth's atmosphere
encompasses all people, creatures, and habitats. Stewardship is defined in this case as the ability
to exercise moral responsibility to care for the environment. Our Catholic tradition speaks of a
conditions under which humanity is allowed to use the goods of the world calls us to be good
stewards of the Earth. Stewardship requires a careful protection of the environment and calls us
to use our intelligence 'to discover the earth's productive potential and the many different ways in
which human needs can be satisfied. This asserted that responsibility weighs more heavily on
those with the power to act because the threats are often the greatest for those who lack similar
power, namely vulnerable poor peoples as well as future generations. Significant delays in
addressing climate change may compound the problem and make future remedies more difficult,
painful, and costly. On the other hand, the impact of prudent actions today can potentially
improve the situation over time, avoiding more painful but necessary actions in the future.

Passing along the problem of global climate change to future generations as a result of our delay,
indecision, or self-interest would be easy. "Grateful for the gift of creation," invites men and
women of good will in every walk of life to consider with us the moral issues raised by the
environmental crisis. These are matters of powerful urgency and major consequence. They
constitute an exceptional call to conversion. As individuals, as institutions, as a people, we need
a change of heart to preserve and protect the planet for our children and for generations yet
unborn.

Are there concrete ways in which I display a reverence for the earth in my daily life? (gardening,
recycling, careful use of fossil fuels, choices to consume less, organic options at the market,
mindful consumption, etc.).

Yes there are a lot of concrete ways. Environmental pollution is one of the big issues facing our
modern world. While major technological advancements have occurred in the last few days, it
has also invited negative environmental effects. By doing a simple thing like planting a tree we
will make the planet a better place and certainly we will all continue to be proud of our
achievement. Saving the earth is no longer merely a matter of concern. It is reality about
survival. Individuals , organizations and governments need to come together and join hands to
protect what is left of our planet so that the future is not wiped out before it’s time for a curtain
call.
Let us plan our cities according to the available water resources and not avail water for too many
homes that have been crammed into development. Saving energy reduces air pollution and
greenhouse gases. The less we pollute our environment, the more we prevent global warming.
Let us check the seas from rising and submerging our lands. Increasing number of organizations
are being formed to prevent the planet from premature extinction. More and more corporates
have joined the race to save the planet. We can simply begin by buying recycled products for our
office, home or school. The greater the demand for recycled products, the more these companies
will be encouraged to add recycled material to their products. We can also make simple changes,
like using reusable bags and containers. We should try and conserve electricity by turning off the
lights, TV, or other electrical appliances when not in use. Buy less disposable products. Ban
plastic. Buy more fuel-efficient cars and recycle your engine oil. Use public transit whenever
possible. Let us walk more and drive less to conserve fuel and prevent auto-emission. We should
avoid littering our roads and highways. And prevent others from doing so. Always dispose your
litter properly. Littering is not just bad for the environment, it is also an offence carrying heavy
fines. We use more organic fertilizers. Our farms need less pesticides and more organic methods.
Plant trees to improve air quality. Take a stand against deforestation. Losing our rainforests
means losing millions of trees that would otherwise be cleaning the air for us. Let’s teach our
community to respect Nature.