We are in the midst of the Season of Creation, an annual ecumenical time for focusing on our relationship with Creation. In his message for this season, Pope Leo acknowledges that we have caused tremendous destruction to creation, but he does not leave it at that, for he also affirms that it is never too late to turn away from our harmful ways. He thus calls us to a renewal of our hearts and much more - "profound conversion". The call issued is clear. We are called to "transform harm into life". .
Sound too daunting? Well, no, it is possible. Transformation is possible. I know through personal experience. Let me recount a recent and simple story that speaks so strongly to me on this.
Due to a misunderstanding in language, a rift opened up between a member of the community and me. I could not do anything about it, except assure the person that my few words meant no harm and only spoke of my sense of humour. This rift has carried on for sometime, with my thinking how silly and choosing to stand back and let things be.
Well, yesterday's Gospel reading focused on church order and the role of church in righting wrongs and forgiveness. This gave me the opportunity to publily apologise during my homily for any wrong I may have caused anyone in the community. Well, lo and behold, to my great surprise, this had a real impact as this same person acted afterwards, towards me, in a way, that showed all is now forgiven.
I was pleasantly shocked. Someone actually listens to me and does something to show they did listen. Amazing! In this case, transformation happened at the micro level, which showed me that transformation can truly happen at the macro level. Say no more!
