Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: DRIZZLE (03/05/20)
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TITLE: A Subtle Touch | Previous Challenge Entry
By Philippa Geaney
03/12/20 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
I know mine did.
Gio is my chief chef and never backward in telling me of his Jesus-in fact telling all the kitchen in his loud Italian accent - but then to suddenly announce to me, a laconic Australian, that he felt Jesus had told him to withhold his lips from speaking: well that was worth listening to.
‘Daniel, you a-gotta give your life to Jesus’.
Always in the past he’d wave whatever culinary tool he was holding above his head and overpower me with facts -and I’d retreat into the office to fret over my red balance sheet.
But why would I tell you this?
Several reasons spring to mind; for one, the only time Giovanni is subtle is when adding a final touch of sauce to his plates; two, I’m his boss; three, you might like to visit the restaurant someday.
My stock argument against listening to Gio’s heavy handed discourse was that he was not especially benefiting from knowing Jesus. Despite his ridiculous joy and faultless dishes, customers seemed to be staying away in droves and my concern was that if it continued he and his Jesus might find themselves looking for a new job.
But then everything changed.
Gio came in early one day and folding his arms he leaned against my office door. For some reason I focused on his white apron. I wondered where he got it laundered.
‘Boss I’ve been to heavy on the sauce.’
I just glared at him. Laconic. Gio didn't drink.
‘I believe I’m to stop speaking so much.
‘So I’m a-sutting up'. Gio made a motion of zipping his lips. ‘And today when I did He started speaking. Softly. Subtly. Like I sauce my dishes.’ Gio joined his thumb and index finger to indicate a careful and deliberate application.
‘Well that’s nice Gio, maybe it does take God to shut you up.’
The old Gio burst out laughing and nodded.
'Maybe Boss, maybe. But I keep quiet today, and He tells me you need help and what I’m to do’.
Now that got my attention. I’d never spoken of my cash flow issues.
‘Here it is Boss. I’m to listen every morning in my quiet time for His voice. If I don’t hear anything I’m not to be worried. He’s not a-going to say something directly every day.
‘But when He does I’m to drizzle in my sauce a shape on the plate. I think He will a-tell me to shape an heart onto someone’s plate - someone who’s feeling unloved. A subtle traffic light with a red dot onto the plate for someone who is to stop and consider a decision. A green dot if He agrees. A flag if the person is thinking of a trip to another country. The scope is endless Boss.’ Gio’s arms had begun waving every which way, drawing imaginary shapes and circles on an air dish.
‘Anything else Gio. It sounds like fortune cookie time to me’.
‘Ah that’s just the thief a-stealing His ideas. Don’t you worry. It’ll open up conversations. You’ll see, this is for your good. And by the way we are not to charge for that meal either.’
Gio stood there expecting me to take it all in.
‘Get out of here Gio. I’ll give you a trial of one month.’
Where those words came from I have no idea.
That was six months ago. Gio has grown in purpose and joy, conducting himself with such lightness that several customers overlooked the message. Although the free meal always opened the conversation.
Amazingly, word of mouth grew our clientele. Curious folk came looking. Hungry folk began lining up outside our restaurant hoping for a table and a timely word of proof that they could hope in a Saviour.
I have given my life to Jesus. He came with the subtlest touch.
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I would be surprised if this doesn't place.
Keep up the good work!
Be blessed and encouraged.