“We undervalue the little things, but . . . the little things are the big things, and these are the things that change the world. So many people I know minimize themselves with the phrase ‘just a’ . . . that phrase — ‘just a’ — needs to be stricken from our vocabulary. ‘Just a’ feeds into the belief that we aren’t doing enough with our lives to give them meaning.”- Jennifer Dukes Lee
“The farmer waits for the precious crop from the earth, being patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.”- James 5:7-8 (NRSV)
In Chapter 8 (“The Little Things are the Big Things”) of Growing Slow, Jennifer Dukes Lee talks about the encouragement a friend gave her. This friend, Pastor Dave, provided steady reminders of where Jennifer stood with God. And he ended each note with these four words: “God delights in you.”
Furthermore, Pastor Dave’s legacy serves as a lesson on constant repeat. Thus, this defines his legacy. Not his resume. Instead, the little things. Above all, Jennifer exhorts:
“Let’s not miss this. We think it’s the big things that are going to change the world, but it is the little things, added together, that make life matter and give it meaning.”
In addition, Jennifer encourages, behold your fields. Take a moment to inventory what you’re growing. Don’t make the mistake of disregarding those tiny shoots of green as forgettable. No one else but you could grow those green shoots – the unrepeatable sequence of DNA that makes you you!
Most significantly, our Maker values the small things. He values, the loaf, the cup, and the mustard seed. And your quiet prayer whispered into the dark. Hence, your faith, kind words, and choice to follow Jesus matters!
Today’s question: How often do you give in to the tendency to undervalue the little things? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: the October Short Meditation, “For the noise of a fly”
