Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious

Now if out of joy in their beauty they thought them gods, let them know how far more excellent is the Lord than these; for the original source of beauty fashioned them. Or if they were struck by their might and energy, let them from these things realize how much more powerful is he who made them. For from the greatness and the beauty of created things their original author, by analogy, is seen.

Everything beautiful and majestic in this world and beyond was created by God and reflects His beauty, might, and power. The earth, the sea, and the sky are ruled over by the Lord of Lords. The animals that walk, swim, and fly have their source in the mind of their Creator. All living things are rooted in the Divine. We, as men and women, find our origin, purpose, and end in Him, who is the source, center, and summit of our lives. So too, He gives us might and energy through the graces He offers us each day. All that is good reflects and magnifies the splendor of our Heavenly Father, His Beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit. With all of these beautiful things around us, we have no excuse not to see God’s Hand in our lives... in the daily miracles, great and small, that surround us from the moment we wake to the moment we fall asleep again. In light of this, we should give constant thanks for all we have been given and for the gifts and talents God has provided us.

Do we recognize God’s beauty, might, and power in the people, places, and things that surround us? Do we give thanks for all God has given us? How can we magnify God’s beauty, might, and power through our thoughts, words, and works?

O Lord, you are the source of all that is good and praise-worthy.

Amen.