Around the mid 1900s, Costa Rica got rid of it’s army.  A group of peace-loving Quakers liked that, and decided to move here.  They settled in the Monte Verde area, where they live to this day.

We happen to be staying at the home of a Quaker. Her name is Deb, and she’s great.  I wanted to understand a little bit more of what she believes and practices, so I picked a book off her shelf on the subject.  (I’ve finished 3 books in the past 2 days… and am lovin’ it!)

The book is by an old Quaker named Robert Lawrence Smith.  It was a delightful read.  I have a new appreciation and view of Quakers, one that isn’t based on an Oatmeal box. (which by the way, was NOT started by a Quaker.  Cadbury, however, was.)

While I don’t agree with a TON of Quaker theology (no original sin, no heaven, no hell, no Saviour, etc.), there were some amazing principles that I was challenged to adopt as a Christ-follower:

1. Action. They have an amazing blend of mysticism and activism.  Belief and faith must lead to action. The Quaker community calls themselves ‘The Living Church’.  That’s a great picture to keep in mind.

2. Peace. Quakers were a major part of the underground railroad. And the feeding of starving Germans after WW1 (led by Quaker Herbert Hoover, later in life the President). They smuggled Jews out of Germany in WW2.  They refused to fight in war times, often jailed for their convictions.

3. Simplicity. Quakers really don’t care about what they wear, what they look like, or what they live in.  It’s about community. About being with others.  It’s also about silence. Taking time out of the busyness to re-calibrate.

4. Character. Back in the late 1600s they invented a saying that is still used today, “May my life speak.”  Their lives, whether in their public affairs or their private duties, attempt to live a life that speaks louder than there words.  It’s powerful.  And it makes me wonder if Eli is a Quaker.

So now you know!

Jay