The Beauty of Simplicity and Complexity: Embracing Joy, Hard Work, and Moral Integrity

The beauty of simplicity and the harmony of complexity are two remarkable qualities that can coexist in a person. Jonathan Edwards once described Jesus as having "an admirable conjunction of diverse excellencies." This idea resonates with me as I think about my mother, Ruth Mohn Piper. She possessed such a unique blend of qualities that made her even more beautiful. Her complexity was free from duplicity, and her simplicity was rooted in unity, concord, integrity. She radiated a genuine, transparent, and sincere presence in her interactions with others.

One of the most striking aspects of my mother's character was her ability to find joy in the midst of hard work. She had a deep love for laughter and a remarkable work ethic. She was always busy, and her hands were never idle. I remember going to bed at night with her straightening the living room and waking up to the sound of her polishing the glass table in the dining room. She had a meticulous attention to detail, and everything she did was done with excellence.

Her favorite book in the Bible was Proverbs, which celebrates industry and diligence. She often quoted verses like Proverbs 6:6, which says, "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise." She taught me the value of hard work and the importance of taking pride in a job well done. From teaching me how to hang up my clothes and keep my room clean to showing me how to change the oil in a car, she instilled in me a strong work ethic that has stayed with me throughout my life.

But her work was not just about productivity; it was also a source of joy and fulfillment. She found delight in her labor, and her smile was a constant presence on her face. Whether she was humming while ironing or singing along to a parlor song played on the grand piano, she infused her work with a sense of merriment. Work was not drudgery for her; it was a way to express her joy.

In addition to her joy and industry, my mother possessed an incredible range of skills and talents. She was what I would describe as an omnicompetent complementarian. She could do just about everything better than my father, except preach, pray, and tell jokes. But it wasn't just her competence that impressed me; it was her ability to embrace her role as a complementarian wife. She supported my father's leadership and respected his authority in the family. She understood the importance of the dance of manhood and womanhood in marriage and embraced her role with grace and humility.

Despite her competence, she never made me feel inadequate or overshadowed. She was always there to help and guide me, whether it was with schoolwork or life decisions. She taught me how to navigate the challenges of life and equipped me with practical skills and wisdom. I knew that I could always rely on her for support and guidance.

One of the qualities that set my mother apart was her unwavering sense of right and wrong. She had a moral backbone that was coupled with a gentle, merciful care for others. She held herself and those around her to high standards, and she wasn't afraid to enforce the rules when necessary. I remember instances where I received a belt or had my mouth washed out with soap for breaking the rules. But even in those moments of discipline, I knew that her actions were motivated by love and a desire to shape me into a person of character.

She was also willing to stand up for what she believed in, even if it meant going against the majority. I witnessed this firsthand when she stood alone in voting against a church decision that excluded black people from entering the sanctuary. She was willing to face opposition and stand up for justice, even when it was difficult and unpopular. Her moral compass was unwavering, and she inspired me to pursue righteousness and justice in my own life.

But amidst her strong sense of right and wrong, my mother also displayed a remarkable level of tenderness and care. She was not just a lawgiver and enforcer; she was a compassionate and loving helper. She supported me through my struggles, particularly with public speaking, and provided a safe and nurturing environment for me to grow. She believed in me and encouraged me to overcome my fears and insecurities. Her ceaseless care and support made a lasting impact on my life.

Throughout it all, the foundation of my mother's character and values was rooted in the Word of God. She treasured the Bible and saw it as the ultimate guide for life. She read it consistently and sought to live out its teachings in her daily life. Her faith in God was evident in all that she did, and she passed down a legacy of faith to me.

As I reflect on my mother's life, I am grateful for the diverse excellencies that she embodied. Her joy and industry, her omnicompetence as a complementarian, and her moral backbone paired with merciful care were all integral parts of her character. She was the happiest woman I have ever known, and her presence brought light and stability into my life.

In conclusion, my mother's life serves as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in simplicity and the harmony that can exist within complexity. She was a woman of depth and character, and her impact on my life is immeasurable. I am thankful for the example she set and the lessons she taught me. Her legacy of joy, hard work, moral integrity, and compassionate care continues to shape who I am today.