At the end of the meal, when all are satisfied, Jesus asks for the leftovers to be collected “so that nothing gets wasted”. Let us look at Jesus’ words again, ‘that nothing gets wasted’.
In Pope Francis’ Laudato Si we read that in God’s creation, everything recycles and so there is no waste. Think of water evaporating from the oceans, lakes, rivers and icebergs and going up into the atmosphere where under the right circumstances, it rains, hails or snows down on us again. Consider plants or trees dying and
breaking down and replenishing the soil to provide nutrition for the new growth. Recollect how oxygen is provided for by God’s through photosynthesis in green plants on land and sea to absorb the carbon dioxide and produce more oxygen for us. There is no waste in God’s plan.
Can we imitate this by limiting the use of resources to the level at which they can replenish themselves; and by developing that which after use can become a resource again and not damage our environment. So many go without their basic needs. Yet, there is so much waste in our families, communities, and the world. Let me look again at my waste and see
how I can contribute to God’s creation and not be part of the waste and destruction.
How can I reduce my use of resources and recycle where possible? Where can I simplify my life so that there is enough for all? How can I be ‘neighbour’? What is enough for me?
There is enough for all if we care and share. Let us, the Body of Christ, imitate Jesus in his presence, generosity, inclusiveness and love.
