Understated


 

In the span of just a few days, the season has changed in my little neighborhood. I don’t mean the official first day of Fall has arrived or that there has been a drastic and noticeable change in the weather. No, in my neighborhood the change in seasons is marked by the decorations that brighten the yards and homes. With most of the homes having small children living there, each season brings an outpouring of creativity and humor. It makes one smile.
This particular display is simple and traditional. Flowers in fall colors, hay bales and a pumpkin. Yet it says it all. Seeing this image immediately turns the mind to Autumn. Suddenly my mind is filled with memories of crisp weather, beautiful leaves, football games and time in the colorful woods. So much from such a simple display.
Sometimes less really is more. That can be true, even when it comes to our religious life. When I think of those persons whose lives have really brought light into my life, it has been those who are somewhat understated. They did not speak down to me from a place of self importance or self righteousness, but out of a humble spirit. They did not talk about God and faith as if it was a debate to be won, but simply shared how their own life was being changed. They did not look at others with an expectation that everyone needed to be like them, but with an appreciation that they were in it with the rest of us.
We read these words in the letter to the Ephesians,

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” Such an understated life holds great power for peace and unity, love and respect. Perhaps this kind of life will inspire others who pass through our lives. Perhaps together we can be used to bring some sanity to the world.
Peace.

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