noticing, part 1

Message for Tuesday, 5/12/2020

What do we notice? (Part 1):

[i]

Look at this piece of art. It was painted in 1890 by Paul Signac. It’s a riot of color and shape. As we look at it, our eyes are drawn to the swirls and the stars, or perhaps to the bright jacket of the man in the photo. What do you notice first, and what in this photo most grabs your attention? Notice those things, and relish the emotions they bring forth…

Now, join me in looking at what the man in the painting is noticing. Although he has fine clothing and is surrounded by amazing colors, his focus is on one thing only: a small white flower. One pure lily. No leaves, no flower pot, no big bouquet, no church full of lilies on Easter morning. Just one lone flower – that is all the man sees.

Sometimes, my friends, this is our call. There is much we can see and notice these days. Color and argument and advice and contrasts are all around us. It can be overwhelming all that streams into our lives on a daily basis. But in the midst of it all is the lily. The pure, small, truth – that God is with us. That God is loving us. That Jesus lives in our lives, no matter what.

This week, take a moment, and notice. Notice – the lily – the small pure reminders that Jesus is with you. Amen.

[i] Paul Signac. Opus 217. Against the Enamel of a Background Rhythmic with Beats and Angles, Tones, and Tints, Portrait of M. Félix Fénéon in 1890. Museum of Modern Art, New York City.