An Unassuming Life
People, who are tempted to distinguish themselves in the eyes of others … in spite of their talents, must courageously suppress their self-love and prefer a withdrawn, obscure life, until a distinct vocation from God invites them to emerge. (OOCC, II, pp. 102- 103)
For St. Vincent, a person who dedicates his life to God must live an unassuming life. His dedication implies that he chooses God, and him alone, and gives himself to the service of others in the name of God. There should be no self-love in the manner in which he lives out his dedication. Even though a person has many talents and abilities, he must use them without showing off. Every temptation to manifest one’s greatness should be nipped in the bud. The distinction of a person is not meant for pharisaic display, but for fruitful use at the service of God’s people. Hence, Vincent says that a person should not constantly allow himself to be tempted to exhibit his abilities in front of others. But instead of showing off his talents, he must quietly use them for the purpose of the glorification of God and the good of human persons. He must suppress his excessive self-love and never allow his abilities to be used in such a way that he becomes more selfish. If a person’s temptation to manifest his abilities is so great, then he must withdraw and live an obscure and quiet life by going in the background until a time when a distinct vocation from God invites him to come to the forefront and use his talents publicly. For it is better not to use one’s abilities, rather than using them for an evil purpose. Thus, St. Vincent wanted his followers to live a life that is simple, unassuming and God-fearing.
Do I live a simple and unassuming life as a steward of God? Do I display my talents in a pharisaic manner? Do I use my talents and abilities for the good of God’s people? Am I afraid to be in the background, and allow others to be in the foreground?
For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience that we have behaved in the world, and still more toward you, with holiness and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God. (II Cor. 1: 12)