Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?²

   Shortly after coming to Christ, Saint Francis of Assisi renounced his former wealth, and began traveling about the countryside, preaching the gospel, living simply, and seeking to make Christ real to everyone he met. Francis loved nature, and many of his stories spotlight his interaction with animals. Once, while hiking through the Italian Spoleto Valley, he came upon a flock of birds. When they didn't fly away, he decided to preach a little sermon to them: “my brother and sister birds, you should praise your Creator and always love him. He gave you feathers for clothes, wings to fly and all other things you need. It is God who made your home in thin pure air. Without sowing or reaping, you receive God's guidance and protection.” It is said that the flock then flew off rejoicing!

   That perspective is reflected in a hymn Francis composed just before his death called the “Cantico di Frate Sole” (Song of Brother Sun). It calls all creation to worship God. The sun and moon; a call to the birds, the clouds, wind, and fire; to all tender-hearted men. All Creatures of our God and King.

   Though written in 1225 an English version didn't appear until 1919 when Reverend William H. Draper used it for Children's Worship in England. “All creatures of our God and King” simply echoes an older hymn, Psalm 148, which says:

“...Praise Him, sun, and moon, praise Him, all you shining stars! Praise Him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! …Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all deeps, fire and hail, snow and mist, stormy wind fulfilling his word! Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars! Beasts and all livestock, creeping things, and flying birds... Let them praise the name of the Lord, for His name alone is exalted; His majesty is above earth and heaven…”

 All Creatures of our God and King, lift up your voice and with us sing, Alleluia! Alleluia!

Thou burning sun with golden beam, thou silver moon with softer gleam,

Oh, Praise Him! Oh, Praise Him! Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!³

Suggested prayer: Dear Lord, I cannot stay quiet and with all creation, lift your name and praise you for you are Holy and worthy of my praise! Thank you for your love and your protection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. Luke 19:40.

2. Matthew 6:26.

3. “All Creatures of Our God and King” hymn by St. Francis di Assisi (1225)

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.