Wednesday 29 July 2015

The simplicity & wonder of community...

Community turns up in some of the most unexpected and surprising of ways.
There is a constant tension for me between simplicity and wonder daily. Both are important to recognize. Simplicity in that it arrives in the most regular, basic of forms, not as complicated as we think. Followed by a  wonder that in those basic of forms there is something divinely significant and a piece of heaven on earth is experienced somehow someway.


I see him off in the distance and I can't help but smile. What a sight to behold. Sprawled out on a lawn chair, dishcloth soaked upon forehead, novel in hand, tea in mug having the time of his life. We walk below the overpass to reach his cozy home, and partake in his inviting relaxation. Soon we find ourselves welcomed to sit down and enjoy the peace. As cars zoom above our heads, he beckons us  into a theological talk of Jesus, God, christians and the church. He is incredibly smart, having read countless books of all different genres, we enjoy the friendly yet serious banter as we speak about our differing beliefs.We appreciate him, he appreciates us, and our friendships continue to grow and deepen.
Community found in the hidden thinker.

The girl with turmoil, pain and grief wracking her being who walks through the door and opens her arms with a big hug, craving the familiar relationships she has accepted. The depth of her sensitive heart, the processing of her feelings and difficult circumstances over tea, the settled peace of trusting the people around her. Countless times of sharing smiles and laughter, and the times of sharing through tears and voicing  sadness.
Community found in the burdened sweetheart.

The toothless older woman, with wrinkly laugh lines,wispy white hair and sparkly eyes, who never fails to lavish love in reaching out to hold me from her wheelchair, and call me by name.
Community found in the endearing delighter.

The precious deaf gentleman who pans handing out sign language cards teaching people to communicate with him. His large grin, twinkly eyes,  ready to chat and extend thoughtful affection and genuine thankfulness.
Community found in the easily missed treasure.

His extravagant affirmation, as he speaks encouragement, worth and passion over me. He is a person who no one can get past without a bear hug and words steeped in love.
Community found in the Jesus lover.

His image comes in all forms of the simple, regular, and the seemingly mundane.
His image comes with divine wonder, and exciting mystery.

May we be aware of the community and people he is blessing us with all around our lives, and revealing his very real image.







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