The first reading of today from the Book of Genesis 2. 4b-9; 15-17 narrates the second account of the creation of humans, the first account being that of Genesis 1, 26-30. I would like to emphasize the significant features of the creation of humans in the first reading of today. By so doing, I will draw some lessons from it in connection with its Psalm and today’s Gospel.
The Creation Narrative is Not a Scientific Account
The creation account of humans in Genesis must not be approached as a scientific fact where we search for historical accuracy or logical sequence. They, however, offer some qualities which, when approached from a balanced perspective, offer a coherent theological vision about the wisdom of God the creator and creaturely life of human beings with the rest of creation. The first account of creation of humans in Gen 1, 26-30, is providential – it sees creation as the inundation of God’s benevolence to humans. The second, part of which is the first reading of today, is legislative or regulatory. This second account of creation reminds humans that this benevolence goes with a responsibility, for creation is a gift that should not be abused. We understand what human being and human existence becomes if we lose the sense of relationship and responsibility. Human beings enjoy nourishment from the earth but they do not possess any exclusive and infinite power over creation. This situation of creatures encourages us to openness to the Spirit of God who is in us and in creation, and who encourages our efforts to promote the beauty of the earth.
A Coherent Theological Vision for Living in God’s World
The focus on God’s work of creation and the state of human beings and all creatures could be read in the light of Jesus’s proclamation of all foods as pure in the gospel (Mk 7:14-23). That will mean that the prohibition of eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil does not actually refer to actual eating of a fruit, but rather to the ecological responsibility imposed on humans as guardians of creation – a responsibility that is to be exercised in recognizing the boundaries of their sovereignty and the limits of their power over created things. Humans are not stationed as Lord but rather as a steward of creation. Human beings, therefore, are not the judge of what is naturally pure or impure, but rather should be a grateful beneficiary of God’s providence.
Song of Praise
The Psalm of the day (Ps 104:1-2a, 27-28, 29bc-30) is a song of praise to God the creator of heaven and earth. It affirms the dependence of creatures on God including human beings. God’s benevolence sustains every creature. If God takes away their breath, they perish and return to the dust. It further affirms that God’s spirit sustains and renews the earth. Above all, as human beings living in common with all created things, we owe our existence to the good purposes of a loving and sovereign God.
Some of the questions that today’s readings prompt are: How am I conscious of God’s spirit in me? Do I try to find out God’s purposes for me and his wisdom in creation? Do I recognize my place as a creature among other creatures? Do I make space for the flourishing of other creatures? Do I share my life as a human creature in communion with creation and God the creator?
A beautiful reflection – thank you Sister. I have shared with our RCIA seekers :).