The gift of simplicity

At that time Jesus was filled with joy by the Holy Spirit and said, ‘Father, Lord of heaven and earth! I thank you because you have shown to the unlearned what you have hidden from the wise and learned. Yes, Father, this was how you were pleased to have it happen.

‘My Father has given me all things. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.’
(verses 21,22)

Read Luke 10:17-24

When people are ‘specking’ (searching for sapphires on the surface after rain) on the Queensland Gem Fields, they often say, ‘It’s the children who are best at this; they are closer to the ground’.

People who are closer to the ground are also more likely to be richer in matters of the Spirit. Down to earth, not hindered by their own sense of importance, unafraid to admit their own ignorance, such people are prime candidates for the wisdom that comes from God—the wisdom who is a person, Jesus Christ. Such people are unhindered by their own egos.

Experience teaches us that the unlearned are often in certain important respects the most learned of all. The knowledge of the mysteries of God which they have is not gained by studying or passing exams. They are simple, uncomplicated people who are willing to just receive from God. Among them are often little children and dependent frail aged people.

Treasure such people always. What they have has been gifted to them by God. From them we can all learn precious spiritual things far too mysterious even for professors to grasp. In particular, we learn what it means to live by God’s mercy and kindness alone.

Lord Jesus, teach me your art of simplicity, so that in uncomplicated and ordinary people, things and stories I can discover the hidden secrets of God. Amen.

by Aub Podlich, in ‘God’s Peace for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2005)

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