Inspiring Ignatian Quote #4

I love the gifts of the Creator. I am amazed, in awe and wonder, delighted, grateful, and all manner of emotions when I see a magnificent sunset, a glorious tree or stunning flower, even family and friends. I’m even a little partial to what I call ‘orphans’, both the people sort, and the scrappy looking tree or misshapen flower, or simply a cool refreshing evening when clouds mask the rich colors of a hidden sunset. I do try and remember my prayers of gratitude to my Loving Creator, but often times my prayer is directed to the beauty and/or the emotion and/or the object . . . I must try and remember to ‘love Him more than His gift’. The gifts won’t last, but His love is everlasting!

Ignatius, the founder of the Society of Jesus, (the Jesuits), have as their motto: Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (AMDG) which means, “for the greater glory of God”. It is how all work of the order is done, for the greater glory of God, not for their own renown, fame, or prestige. Somehow, when I remember that my work is to help bring God notice, glory, praise and/or honor, it helps reduce the tendency of personal or selfish prideful-ness. It can be such a slippery slope that can lead to misguided aspirations if our gifts are used to glorify ourselves without recognition as to where our gifts and talents came from. Help me be mindful and grateful for you Lord, not just the gifts with which you so richly bless me, but that you chose me as a recipient and have an intended use for their good and Your glory.

John the Baptist realized this: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” (from the Gospel of St. John 3:30), as well as St. Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians 10:31, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” AMDG.