Summer is going by fast. It’s August already, and I want to hold on to the best of summer — fresh vegetables and fruits, the many flowers in full bloom and green everywhere. I see the beauty all around me and I thank God for the magnificence of His creation. What a gift God has given us!
“… Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts! All the earth is filled with his glory!” Isaiah 6:3
Some years back, Pope Francis was inspired to call us to see the gift God has given us in His creation, our home — the earth. Pope Francis called his encyclical, On Care for our Common Home.
It begins with “ ‘LAUDATO SI’, mi’ Signore” – “Praise be to you, my Lord.” In the words of this beautiful canticle, Saint Francis of Assisi reminds us that our common home is like a sister with whom we share our life and a beautiful mother who opens her arms to embrace us. “Praise be to you, my Lord, through our sister, Mother Earth, who sustains and governs us, and who produces various fruit with coloured flowers and herbs.” (Laudato Si’)
For Saint Francis, people, creatures and creation were all related as “sisters and brothers.” It seems fanciful, but I love this! Brother Sun, Sister Moon and Stars, Brother Wind, Sister Water, Brother Fire, Sister Mother Earth.
“Ever since the creation of the world, his invisible attributes of eternal power and divinity have been able to be understood and perceived in what he has made. …” Romans 1:20
If we thought like this, perhaps it would be easier to be more mindful of the beauty that surrounds us and how we are living on the earth, how we are caring for her. This month, take a look around you and notice all the beauty God has created for our use and enjoyment. Mountains and trees, rivers and lakes, plants and animals. Be mindful and grateful.
The pace of life does not encourage or facilitate mindfulness. If possible, slow down long enough to breathe in the beauty of God’s creation. This month I hope you will be intentional and find some time to really see the glory of these summer days, colorful flowers and plants, green grass and trees, sunrise and sunset or even a walk in the woods.
May the God of all creation bless you with the time and grace to draw nearer to Him through the beauty of the earth.
Blessings,
Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the firmament proclaims the works of his hands.”
Psalms 19:1