Modus Operandi

I‘m no Latin expert, truth be told -,I’m not even a novice. The only Latin I know is that of my University Song and the odd English appearing word here and there. So when “modus operandi” was used in a description of my work, I confess I had to google it to see what it meant!

Modus operandi, (according to google!) means “method of operation”. It is the term used to describe someone’s habits of working. Fortunately for me the phrase was used at work in a positive manner. Relief!

But now, I, having learnt some Latin, was keen to see if I could then drop it into a conversation, demonstrating my clever knowledge of Latin of course. As it turns out, I did use it in a conversation but not sure when it really counts when the conversation consisted of asking my Lawyer brother if he had heard of it….He had….Latin being a second language really for those of the Legal profession.

So, use in a blog I must! Because as always, it had me thinking. I know what my modus operandi is at work as I oversee the management of 2000 plus sea containers in the South Pacific and fortunately it is good. But what is my modus operandi in life? Daily, minute by minute, hour by hour how do I operate? What words would people use to describe my habit of living? Am I continually demonstrating the fruits of the Spirit? Does Peace govern my life? Is kindness my modus operandi? Do I love? Does goodness come easily?

The thing about fruit is that it is visible – tangible – beneficial and good! I’m challenged to make sure that the tangible, visible evidence of the fruit of the Spirit is demonstrated in my life – every day. Then it can be said of me that it is my habit, my modus operandi! If I make love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control my Modus Operandi, I think I might have a chance of changing this world around me.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galations 5:22-23)