Contemporary society has been so far removed from the natural world to the extent that some do not even know that humans are, like all creatures, totally dependent it. Picking up food and supplies from the supermarket creates an illusion – and indeed obscures the fact that everything comes from the earth. If one does not intentionally seek to connect with nature, one is misled into believing that humans are in control.
Historically, the church observed Rogation Days – meaning, “Days of Prayer” - in Spring. April 25 is the Major Rogation and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday before Ascension Day (Thursday) are the Three Minor Rogations. During these days petitions are offered, for rain - enough and not too much - because Spring is the planting season. Similarly, prayers are offered for protection against natural forces that are beyond mankind's control – earthquakes, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, etc.
There is news of drought – and therefore, hunger – in the Sahel Region of Africa. There are also wild fires raging in the west of the United States. Winter did not show up this year in most of the United States.
An imbalance in one season creates ripples in the other season. Cumulatively, the whole ecosystem is put off balance. While we have control over how we treat our environment, we hardly have control over the ripple effects. We can expect harmony if we deal with our environment harmoniously.
How can one be connected or close to the Creator if one is removed from the creation? If we are disconnected with the environment and the natural world around us, we can hardly be connected to the Creator.
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