From the Desk of Pastor Matt

Brother Lawrence was a 17th-century monk assigned to a monastery kitchen to wash dishes. That’s about all he did. Seriously. I can’t imagine the misery he was in. However, he did not see it that way at all. Rather, he found God not just in prayer and worship, but also in mundane chores. He realized that even the small things could be done for God, and they could make a difference in the world. Brother Lawrence said two things worth quoting. First, he said, “The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen… I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament.” Likewise, he said, “Lord of all pots and pans and things… make me a saint by getting meals and washing up the plates!” He truly learned to be content with his own way of serving God and the world.

I think we often feel like we must do big things to make a big difference. But I am not sure that is so true. Even the little things can add up thanks to the ripple effect that you may have heard about. One little action can lead to more and more effects. In other words, little things make big results whether we realize it or not.

In Matthew 25, Jesus said:

    I was hungry and you fed me,

    I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,

    I was homeless and you gave me a room,

    I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
  
    I was sick and you stopped to visit,

    I was in prison and you came to me.’
               
All these things that Jesus mentioned are small things: a meal, a visit, clothes, etc. I believe this is Jesus’ own way of saying the same thing that I am trying to say: little things add up and multiply.
           
It is sometimes the simplest things we can do that have the potential to change someone’s life and change the world. Bringing food for Momma’s Meals, opening the door for someone at a restaurant, or serving communion for Sunday worship. These are seemingly insignificant actions. However, I bet Jesus would disagree with that.
               
So, keep doing the small things in addition to aspirations of doing the big ones. In God’s math, they all make a difference.

Peace,

Pastor Matt