Recognizing this inner beauty, this divine spark, within all things and drawing it out for others to see is the vocation of the artist. This is an act of Praise. Created in the image of the Creator, man is sub-creator, artist and poet. His ultimate destiny is to praise God. – Deacon Lawrence Klimecki, TheWayofBeauty.org
Our ultimate destiny is to be happy with God forever in heaven, joining the other angels and saints in a choir of praise. We are called in our own way to take part in that communion of saints by praising God here on earth. Our appreciation of God’s creation and our own creative efforts are part of that praise.
We are called to appreciate the incredible beauty of creation. When we take the time to notice, who can help but marvel at the colors of a magnificent sunset or be amazed at the complexity of even the most simple animals? We are surrounded by beauty every day of our lives, but so often we fail to acknowledge it. We are so accustomed to the marvels of creation that we can become immune to them. They become part of the background; they are just there, and we fail to pay attention. God created this wonderful world for us to appreciate and care for. We ourselves are amazing works of creation. How often do we praise God for the world around us or the use of our bodies?
Our own creative efforts are also acts of praise. In using the raw materials of God’s creation to build something new, however temporary, we give praise to the Creator of all. In using the gifts God has given us, we praise the One who gave them to us. How would it change your creative efforts if you viewed them as acts of praise to God? Would it give them an increased importance? Would the work that you spend your time and energy on change?
Prayer
Creator of all, so often I fail to acknowledge and appreciate your creation. I take all of it, even myself, for granted. Thank you for making this wonderful world and for making me. May the work of my hands always give you praise and glory.
Action
Make a conscious effort today to appreciate God’s creation around you. In all you do, give God thanks and praise.
This is an excerpt from The Work of Our Hands. (Amazon affiliate link)
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