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“but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant,”
Thirteen hours of travel, dragging a suitcase, wearing a back pack, standing in line, wiggling uncomfortably in my seat, walking through customs, found me weary to the bone from my travel from my home to Sarah’s home.
A bright welcome sign taped to the front door from my 5 year old grandchild. She had painstakingly drawn balloons, hearts, an image of me and of her. Because she told me, “I love you especial, Queenie,” I knew indeed I was welcomed with the most generous love and care. A bundle of daffodils for my room, a tray from “mama” Sarah with chocolates, my favorite chips, cards from all grandchildren, fresh chocolate chip cookies and tea!
These heartfelt offerings brough tears to my eyes. I was wanted, invited in with love.
This is why I travel the hours, spend the energy — to be loved by those who really personally care for me. The thoughtfulness and gracious love given from my precious ones means the world to me.
The world seems so caught up in the impressive — who has the most numbers, who is the smartest, the most beautiful, the most successful, the one who is organized and has it together?
But when I look to God’s ways, I observe what He has made, listen to the voice of creation, He has made even the insignificant, a small child, a thing of glory, beauty to behold, heavenly art in which my heart is amazed. In His hands, the small becomes significant. So I take hope.
It is the humble He pays attention to. The little boy with only 5 fish and loaves fed 5,000. The idealistic youth defeated the giant. The poor widow with meager drops of oil, fed the famous prophet Elijah. The prostitute who washed His feet with her tears.
And so, my comfort is not in the big, but in the small personal acts of love given. It is small acts accomplished with a big heart that pleases Him.