“For the one who is least among all of you
is the one who is greatest.”
From Luke 9:48
A recent walk around a nearby lake reminded me of just how small I am. This lake offers only a tiny beach area. The remainder of its circumference is lined with very tall trees and dense foliage. The greenery is interrupted only by a narrow path just wide enough for two. As I walked, I felt like a tiny ant in the grand scheme of things. Though the lot where I left my car was actually only a block away, I felt lost in the forest around me.
I feel very small at other times as well. In spite of my best efforts, it seems that I cannot do a thing to solve the problems of this world. The pandemic continues. Unrest between nations persists. Poverty remains in full force. Political interests overpower the good of the many. And on it goes… I ask myself if there is anything I can do to make an important difference.
It is in the midst of this lament that I recall Jesus’ words regarding our need to become like children once again. Little girls and little boys don’t over-think things. They simply observe the situation at hand and respond accordingly. It occurs to me that I do my best work when I follow their lead. I do have the capacity to change the world. It is through seemingly insignificant efforts that I bring peace, sustenance and justice to one soul at a time.
Dear God, the small things we do for one another make a world of difference after all. Thank you!
©2020 Mary Penich – All Rights Reserved
