IN THE SILENCE

Today I saw dandelions blooming in the gutter, and forsythia’s bright yellow flowers along the road. Our japonica is in blossom and so is myrtle and the bridal wreath. In December! Nature is not always beautiful, but it is always surprising.

Many have taken Genesis 1:28's words to subdue and have dominion as meaning to destroy and beat on and abuse the Earth and those weaker than they. But "dominion" means to rule, and a good ruler takes care of his or her subjects. Psalm 111 describes God--our perfect ruler, for He has dominion over us! We should emulate Him in His care for those things and people in our power, whether land or people or animals, be gracious and full of compassion, giving food to the needy, being careful to keep promises, being just and truthful and upright. We should be considerate of all living things whether trees or butterflies and be generous and kind, honoring those whose lives we must take to live, protecting those who depend on us for food or care and love, and allowing others to live their own lives in peace.

{From A Journal of the Spirit, a Journey of the Soul, by D.C. Ice, Dec. 10, 1991.}