In Laudato Si,
Pope Francis says to contemplate creation is to hear a message,
To listen to a paradoxical and silent voice.
Here is a prayer to contemplate creation.
It can be done inside or outside.
It has three moments,
Linger,
Listen,
And love.
And you're invited to pause the recording at any time to allow more space to be with the moment.
The first moment is to linger.
Walk or look around you slowly.
Notice if some member of creation attracts your attention,
A cloud,
A tree,
Or a plant endures.
Allow yourself to linger,
To pause at whatever attracts your attention,
And to be present to what is there.
Use your senses to take in the wonder of this creature,
The colors,
Shapes,
Smells,
Or textures.
The second moment is to listen.
What might this being be trying to tell you?
What might God be saying to you through this element of creation?
Consider entering into dialogue with this member of creation,
Calling to mind St.
Francis,
Talking to the birds,
And calling brother,
Son,
And sister moon.
You might also just ask a question and then listen.
Just be open to what might arise.
The third moment is to love.
When you're ready to move on or to leave,
Find a way to offer love to this being by saying thanks,
Offering a prayer to God for this encounter,
And wishing your new friend well.
Find a way to acknowledge the gift you have received and your desire to give something in return.
If there is time,
You might try this process of linger,
Listen,
And love with another element in creation.
