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 | By Mary D. Dillard, Editor of One Voice

A Reflection of the Divine

Beauty, no doubt, like God, is all around us, and nature is a ubiquitous source of beauty easily attributed to God. As a teenager, I would make it a point to watch the sun rise every Saturday morning. Sitting on a grassy hillside, I would listen to the birds welcome the new day and revel in the splendor of God’s creation. Sadly, the last time that happened was over two decades ago!

Most of the world is in “overdrive” with people relenting to constant distraction. Therefore, it is incumbent on us to allow, if not force, ourselves to find the time to stop and smell those proverbial roses. Certainly, God has given us nature, but He has also gifted many people with talents which allow them to create works of art and music expressing genuine Christian beauty. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, that beauty is “an echo of God’s own creative act.” (Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship)

For centuries, sacred art and music have drawn people to the Church and brought even more closer to their faith. On more than one occasion, a glorious song being sung so magnificently during Holy Communion has brought tears to my eyes. I know I can’t be alone in that experience!


That emotion is pure and rightly felt because through the musicians’ God-given talents, we are actually being drawn into a deeper communion with God. (Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship)


It sounds a little like evangelization, does it not?

So, the next time you are at Mass, especially during the liturgical seasons of Advent and Christmas, take some time to really look around and listen. Every object, focal point, work of art, and song is reflecting the Divine. Let your hearts be lifted and allow yourself the opportunity to encounter God’s glory.