“When the soul contemplates something beautiful and charming, let it consider how much more beautiful, charming, and good is the One who made it. In this way, it will turn directly toward the One who created everything. If it hears a sweet melody or something else that delights it, let it say, ‘Oh! How lovely must be the voice of the One who will one day call you, and from whom all the grace and harmony of the voice emanate.’” (St. Mechthild of Magdeburg)
It is wise to attribute all the wonders that surround us to God’s goodness. Then life takes on a completely different brightness than when we contemplate beauty without attributing it to God and without thanking Him for it. In this way, we join in the praise that resounds ceaselessly in heaven and fills those who sing it with joy. Moreover, we awaken to the full reality of our existence and strengthen our love for God, our Father, from whom all things come.
How will it be for our Father if we put into practice the words of St. Mechthild that we have heard in today’s passage? Without a doubt, He will look kindly upon His children and delight in their fervor to honor Him. He will open their eyes more and more so that the certainty that all that is good, true, and beautiful comes from Him will sink deeply into them. This will make them His witnesses, proclaiming God’s loving presence to those who have forgotten Him and reminding them that everything comes from our Father.
A soul filled with gratitude to God for all that it discovers becomes a light in this world and a reference point for those who, although they recognize the beauties of this life, do not yet praise its Author and Creator. Thus, today’s phrase contains not only advice for our personal lives but also a seed for the expansion of the Kingdom of God.