For Decoration Only
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“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17, NIV).
The beautiful building surrounded by trimmed lawns, tall trees and bubbling fountains is over one hundred years old. Once a home for a wealthy family, today its glowing wood floors, towering built-in bookcases and finely painted smooth walls welcome groups for dinners, meetings and other events. Tapestries and rugs woven by some of Europe’s masters still grace the walls and floors. In every room stand desks, tables, chairs and chests that were once enjoyed by the original owners.
On a recent visit I was again captured by the building’s history. What must it have been like to live there each day, eat in one of the grand dining rooms and even watch deer and other animals roam just outside the walls?
In my meanderings I came upon a beautiful grand piano in the library. While the keys were somewhat yellowed by age, they seemed intact, the strings still taut, and the dark wood glowing in the afternoon sunlight. This instrument seemed to be just waiting for the fingers of a pianist to produce a melody to refresh my soul.
Then I saw the sign: For decoration only. Do not touch or play this piano.
This exquisite instrument could no longer be used for its original purpose. It took up space and drew admiring glances, but no sounds could reach my ears. I walked away disappointed; I wanted more from something I knew had within it what I desired.
I wonder how often we Christians display a sign—an attitude—that leaves people disappointed, maybe even hungry for something they suspect we have within us that could satisfy their longings? In my rush to do good things, do people close to me sense a “Do Not Touch” posture?
We were not created to be for decoration only.
Thank you, Lord, for being a touchable Savior. Help me be more like you as people enter my life.
Amen.
Questions: What kind of attitude do people around you observe? How can one become more “touchable”?
About the Author Marilyn J. Ehle
If I may be so bold as to speak on behalf of what others may ‘think’ of me (when I know I cannot read minds) and the kind of attitude I ‘put out there’, then I would say that I emeade patience and solidity in times of family crisis’. I have been on my journey with the Lord for just a little over three years and in those three years there has been much strife in my family. These trials were not mine but inadvertanly they were just as much a part of me as the family member that was going through the trial. i
sought the Lord for the strength and courage, the wisdom to help as best I could. I know that the Holy Spirit was behind my shoulder guiding carefully the words of comfort that would come from my mouth. At times I was in awe of how I could have found such words. All along though I know that it was the Lord’s direction.
I’m learning slowly (at times a snail’s pace) that as time passes and family see that I am not ‘going through a phase’, that speaking of the Lord, giving Him the credit that family so generously wants to give me gets easier and more natural. To become more touchable? Be more open and give the acculades to the Lord each time. You’ll either get a hug with a smile or a nod with emptiness.
This is a funny devotional. I’ll admit I struggle with this, as a New Yorker. Growing-up in NY, it is a fine balance of being ‘tough’ on the outside (to some extent, for survival/ safety) but also as a Christian, being a humble, wise, friendly and approachable person. The more God works & changes us/ me, I am realizing how it is a balance & I need God’s wisdom. I pray I allow God to shine through me at the right moments & opportunities.
What a signage to see posted “Do not touch or play”. A piano is intended to bless us with its beautiful sounds and melodies, bringing alive music that touches our souls or stirs our emotions.
I am in the midst of a divorce that I did not see coming at all. My husband just decided he didn’t have feelings any more and found someone else very quickly. I don’t believe I had a sign on me that said “Do not play” but rather one that said “Use for God’s glory and glorify Him in all your ways”. Maybe this is what my sign said…and it was too much for untrustworthy behavior. I truly love the “not for decoration only”…God created flowers to be gorgeous to view, fragant to smell, and precious when presented to us. The meaning behind receiving flowers is more than just “hey, flower delivery”. Rather, these were chosen just for you from someone who truly loves you. I believe God loves us in such a deep way we cannot even fathom it.