#Why do I find myself reflecting on the Wolf Moon rising through the branches of a tree, pondering the profound connection between creation and our choices, while questioning how society’s behaviors contribute to the pollution of both our planet and our souls—much like CAPN: “The WTC: The Podcast”, Episode 002 – Rings, Rattles, & Rants and those who once asked of Jesus, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners❓”
Gospel
Jesus went out along the sea.
All the crowd came to him and he taught them.
As he passed by, he saw Levi, son of Alphaeus,
sitting at the customs post.
Jesus said to him, “Follow me.”
And he got up and followed Jesus.
While he was at table in his house,
many tax collectors and sinners sat with Jesus and his disciples;
for there were many who followed him.
Some scribes who were Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with sinners
and tax collectors and said to his disciples,
“Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners❓”
Jesus heard this and said to them,
“Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.
I did not come to call the righteous but sinners.”
Lectio Divina Reflection
Why is it that the simplest acts of creation—a moon rising through the branches of a tree—can draw us into profound contemplation❓ Such moments awaken in me a sense of awe, but also a lingering question about our relationship with the natural world. Why do we so often overlook the beauty that surrounds us, choosing instead to exploit and pollute it for temporary gain❓
Why is it that recognizing the reasons behind pollution often requires complex studies and reports❓ It seems so obvious: the way we live and the choices we make leave an indelible mark on the earth. Yet, instead of facing these truths, we find ourselves entangled in systems that perpetuate harm. Why do we struggle to change when the evidence of damage is so clear❓
“…days but we need more precipitation. Why❓…”
5:04
“…of your predecessors. Why should people…”
8:13
“…why people uh flock to this one so much…”
Why do we resist examining the ways our economic and social behaviors contribute to inequality and degradation❓ Perhaps it’s because acknowledging these truths would force us to confront our own complicity. It’s easier to look away, to distract ourselves with superficial concerns, than to engage with the deeper questions of justice and stewardship.
Why do we, like the Pharisees of old, judge others for their perceived shortcomings without reflecting on our own❓ The same question they asked of Jesus echoes today: Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners❓ It is a reminder that the divine sees worth where we see fault and invites us to do the same—not only with people but with the creation entrusted to our care.
character of relationality and insist upon us nurturing what binds us together; this is why they
correspond to and complement each other concerning how the mission of the Church is lived
out in today’s world.”
Why do I feel the tension between recognizing these truths and acting on them❓ Perhaps it is because the call to follow Christ challenges me to look beyond my comfort zone and embrace humility and compassion, consequently…
Recognizing the reasons why a given area is polluted requires a study of the workings of society, its economy, its behaviour patterns, and the ways it grasps reality.
FROM PARAGRAPH 139 of ENCYCLICAL LETTER LAUDATO SI’ OF THE HOLY FATHER FRANCIS ON CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME