Certain Quote by Saint Augustine
“Our Lord reserved to Himself certain things which He would do in due time in a manner outside the course and order of nature, so that they would wonder and be astonished at seeing not great but unusual things, who are unmoved by things daily seen. For the government of the world is a greater miracle than feeding five thousand men from five loaves; yet at the former no one wonders, the latter astonishes all men: not as a greater wonder, but as a rarer.”
About This Quote
The passage contrasts ordinary governance, a profound miracle, with a singular, spectacular event, suggesting that routine greatness often goes unnoticed while rare feats capture attention.
In simple terms: Great acts can be overlooked; rare events dazzle.
Key Takeaway
Ordinary significance is eclipsed by rarity.
Themes
miracle
perception
rarity
human nature
wonder
Mood
contemplative
reverent
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
spiritual
didactic
When to use this quote
- reflecting on daily achievements
- discussing societal values
- teaching humility
Key Concepts
miracle of governance
human attention bias
spiritual awe
Practical Applications
- educational sermons
- philosophical essays
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we marvel at the extraordinary but ignore the everyday?
- How can we cultivate appreciation for routine wonders?
