November 29. Was Jesus a lover of nature? He used birds, seeds, plants and trees in his teaching and parables, recognising these ordinary natural parts of life. When pets die we and our children often feel very sad. There was a time when it was taught that animals do not have a soul. That thinking is not common today and we do suggest to our children they will see Fluffy the cat, or Munchkin the hamster again as we teach them about the process of life and death.  Watching growth of plants and flowers too reminds us of the fact that life is a celebration too as we journey towards eternity.  

 Reflect, share, act. Scripture:  Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they come out in leaf know the summer is near.  Luke 21:29-33.  Pope  Francis: St Francis takes us to the heart of what it is to be human.  Just as happens when we fall in love whenever he would gaze at the sun, the moon or the smallest of animals he burst into song, drawing all other creatures into his praise. His response to the world around him was much more than intellectual appreciation for to him each and every creature was a sister united to him by bonds of affection. Rather than a problem to be solved, the world is a joyful mystery to be contemplated with gladness and praise. LS11-12.   Eco-tip and prayer:  Creator God in this month of commemoration of loss and death comfort us in our pain and strengthen us in our understanding that you never abandon us and care for each of your creatures day by day.