ICON OF THE TRUE

In today’s scripture, Paul sets forth a daunting prescription for achieving the new life in Christ. Paul’s long list is almost too much to consider at one time. How do I follow such a pursuit day to day? Surely not alone. We seek examples and guides.

We know of the images or icons that are placed in churches and other holy places as reminders of the good work God has done through a person. With compelling imagery, these icons remind us not only of their lives but the vital force at work in them.

Years ago I read a sermon about a special type of person who has a wonderful gift for trying to lead a spiritual life. Call them “Icons of the True.”

One writer has said that as we seek God in the many abstract and traditional ways, we hunger to experience a God “with skin on them.” A person we can turn to and embrace and observe as a model. This can be a dangerous business if not pursued carefully. Fortunately, there are rare but living Icons of the True among us.

My journey as a seeker on the way of growth of the spirit has been blessed by the wonderful and enduring friendship and guidance of the Rev. Lin Ludy. I am sure that Lin would resist even a hint of characterizing her as an icon. Her humility only confirms my conclusion. In the difficult times, she helped me to prayerfully find my own way – I don’t recall her giving me even one piece of advice. In the good times, she urged an awareness of the joy. We even formed a Christian Silent Clown troupe to visit the elderly and the sick to share the joy. I have often heard Lin say, “God is the clown in me.”

As we journeyed together, Lin demonstrated many strengths, but four stand out:

1) Lin firmly believed that a life bathed in prayer is primary. She helped many of us explore the many ways to experience the presence of God. Lin demonstrated in quiet openness, the prayer of the heart. Words were not necessary

2) No matter the situation or topic, Lin always found the most important matter to consider. She was not lost in the noise of the moment, but heard and could relate the essential and often underlying issues. We talked about worthy things. When asked a question, she would wait for a long time to respond, and then respond very concisely and to the point.

3) As we talked, I often found myself with an awareness of a hidden or new understanding of matters. On reflection, I see in my awakening Lin’s loving and caring hand.

4) Lin was courageous in sharing her own journey. One beggar showing another beggar where to find bread. It has been said that a teacher shares not only her knowledge but her lovingness. This is true.

So now that years have passed, and we have done many things with Lin and her husband Bert, Lin continues as an Icon of the True for me. Lin, I am so glad I found you and you found me.

— Joe Matney

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist