Consider the Lilies – September 23, 2001
When we contemplate the beauty of this world God has chosen to share with us, our thoughts are drawn to the miracle of creation. When we look at a majestic mountain, a spectacular vista, or a magnificent sunset, we think of God, our Creator. We’re reminded that God is the Master of all artists, and His handiwork is plain and obvious to us. But can we not sometimes see God’s genius in His smaller creations? Consider the lily, or any flower, and see the loving attention lavished on the smallest details of creation.1
When we contemplate the mystery of human goodness, again our thoughts are led to consider the Author of all good. The noblest and finest acts of mankind seem to us a reflection of a larger benevolence, of divine charity. The greatest acts of charity and goodness seem to mirror a larger good, a deeper well of kindness. Perhaps we can also see God’s eternal love reflected in smaller actions—mere echoes of the larger love God has for us all.
Every day we have the opportunity to speak softly or harshly, to think well or ill of a neighbor, to comfort someone in need or to pass him by. We see a person trip on the sidewalk ahead of us, and it’s the decision of a moment to offer help or to continue on our way. We see a child, weeping and frightened, alone in a store, and it takes us a fraction of a second to decide to aid or to pass the problem on to someone else. Every day we can choose impatience and abruptness, or forbearance and gentleness. Consider the lily—a small thing, a tiny plant. Consider the larger glory it reflects. Even in our smallest choices, we can mirror God’s image. Even in the smallest ways, we can make our lives a continuous reflection of His goodness.
Program #3762
1. See Matthew 6:28-29.