Psalm 19:1-16

The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament[a] proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice[b] goes out through all the earth and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens and its circuit to the end of them, and nothing is hid from its heat.

The peacock was considered by early Christians as a representation of the eternal life found in Jesus Christ. There was also an ancient legend that the peacock’s flesh did not decay even after death, which contributed to this idea of immortality. The peacock appears in a variety of early Christian art (from frescoes and mosaics in churches and catacombs to everyday objects like lamps) as symbol of the resurrection and Christ’s eternal existence. When the peacock fanned its tail feathers in full display, the “eyes” on its plumes were also seen as the “Eye of God.”

Prayer

Holy God, You have filled this world with beautiful and amazing creatures. We are grateful for the special ways that Your creation can remind of us Your love for us and the importance of life in Christ. Strengthen us today to be Your humble and beautiful creatures, pointing those we encounter towards the glory of Your cross. Amen.