LIFE IS NOT COMMONPLACE by Fanny Lawrence Carter

The poem "Life is Not Commonplace" is an evocative reflection on how every moment of life carries divine significance. Through its rhythmic verses, the poet reminds us that God's grace permeates our days, transforming even the mundane into moments of wonder, purpose, and victory. To fully appreciate its depth, we must delve into each stanza and unpack its meaning, drawing connections to the broader themes of faith and grace.

Discovering New Lineaments

"Life is not commonplace,

For every day

We read new lineaments

In that dear Face."

The opening stanza draws our attention to the idea of "lineaments" a face's defining features or contours. Here, the "dear Face" symbolizes God’s presence and character, which we encounter anew each day. Life is portrayed as a continuous revelation, where each moment allows one to discern deeper truths about the Creator.

The poet suggests that life is extraordinary because it allows us to grow in our understanding of God. His features, representing love, justice, mercy, and grace, become clearer as we walk in faith.

The stanza encourages mindfulness. It calls us to observe the subtle ways God reveals Himself in nature, through people, and in the quiet whispers of the soul. The more we look, the more we learn.

Learning Lessons of Grace

"Life is not commonplace,

For every day

We learn new lessons

Of His boundless grace."

Grace is described as "boundless," emphasizing its infinite and unmerited nature. The stanza suggests that each day is a classroom where God teaches us through His grace.

These lessons often come through experiences both joyous and challenging. A moment of kindness may reveal the abundance of His mercy, while a period of hardship might teach us to rely on His strength. The poet masterfully encapsulates how grace not only redeems us but also shapes us.

This perspective transforms how we view life’s trials. What might initially seem burdensome becomes a divine opportunity for growth.

Working for Him in Our Space

"Life is not commonplace,

For every day

He gives us work for Him,

Each in our space."

The underscores the theme of purpose. Life is far from ordinary because God assigns each of us a unique role in His divine plan. The phrase "each in our space" highlights the individuality of this calling. Whether a teacher, artist, manager, or caregiver, everyone has a mission tailored by God.

This carries a subtle challenge: recognizing and embracing the work God has set before us. It invites us to approach even the most mundane tasks with a sense of reverence and dedication, knowing they are acts of worship.

Tracing His Perfect Will

"Life is not commonplace,

For every day

His perfect will for us

We hourly trace."

Here, the poet introduces the idea of "tracing" God’s will, a deliberate and reflective act. Tracing implies a process of discovery and alignment. Unlike a blueprint handed to us in full detail, God’s will often unfolds gradually, requiring faith and patience.

This speaks to the dynamic nature of our relationship with God. It suggests that His will is not something to be feared or avoided but rather something to be sought and To "hourly trace" implies a continuous effort. It’s not a one-time decision but a daily, even moment-by-moment, surrender to His guidance. This challenges us to stay connected to God, tuning our hearts to His direction.

Gaining Victory for the God of Grace

"Life is not commonplace,

For every day

We gain some vict'ry

For the God of Grace."

The final stanza crescendos with a celebration of victory. Life’s battles, both internal and external, are framed as opportunities to glorify God. Through His grace, we overcome sin, fear, doubt, and adversity. Each victory, however small, is a testament to His power working in us.

The poet emphasizes that these victories are not for our glory but for "the God of Grace." It’s a reminder that our triumphs are ultimately His.

The stanza also inspires hope. It reassures us that the challenges we face are not in vain. With each step of faith, each act of obedience, and each moment of perseverance, we move closer to the eternal victory promised in Christ.

A Unified Vision of Grace

At its core, "Life is Not Commonplace" is a meditation on the extraordinary nature of life when seen through the lens of faith. The poem weaves together several themes:

Revelation: Each day reveals new aspects of God’s character.

Grace: Life is a journey of learning to receive and reflect God’s boundless grace.

Purpose: Everyone has a unique role in God’s plan, and all work done for Him carries eternal significance.

Guidance: Tracing God’s will requires faith, patience, and a constant connection to Him.

Victory: Life’s struggles are opportunities to glorify God and experience His power.

Conclusion: Living Beyond the Commonplace

Life is not commonplace is both a declaration and an invitation. It calls us to rise above the mundane and see our days as sacred opportunities to grow in grace, fulfill our purpose, and experience God’s transformative power.

By embracing this perspective, we can approach life with renewed gratitude and purpose. Every moment, whether marked by joy or struggle, becomes part of a divine narrative a story written by the God of Grace, in which we are both participants and beneficiaries.

As we trace His will, learn His lessons, and celebrate His victories, we honor the Creator and discover the profound beauty of a life lived fully for Him. Truly, life is not commonplace; it is an extraordinary gift, shaped and sustained by grace.