Several authors in our present refectory book have alluded to the idea that human beings are what might be termed destructive intruders into nature’s harmony and that the earth would probably be a whole lot better off without us! Similarly, Christianity (in the view of some) is directly implicated in the misuse and exploitation of the earth’s resources. Jesus’ response to his detractors in today’s gospel is a reminder that all creation is precious in the eyes of God and is not to be ruthlessly misused or neglected—least of all in the name of religion. And so, even though it means breaking the Sabbath rules, one doesn’t hesitate to rescue a son or an ox when either falls into a cistern. Likewise, even though it is not immediately life-threatening, healing a man of dropsy also calls for this suspension of Sabbath restrictions. It is when religion loses sight of the value of all life (not only human life) and is willing to imprudently forfeit some life for the sake of upholding religious laws, that it threatens the harmony and wellbeing of the earth and all that dwells upon it. Once again, proof that Jesus’ Good News is not only good news for humanity, but for all of creation destined to share in his great work of re-creation and redemption.
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