Ripples of love..

I was watching a tufted duck diving in the pond the other day. When he goes under, he stays under the surface for a while, but the ripples remain, undulating across the surface of the water. They catch the light, and their symmetry is quite mesmerising.

It reminds us that small things can be so powerful. A paper clip, a button, a clasp can all hold things together. A harsh word, a momentary angry look can create tension and discord. Little things matter so much, and can have big consequences.

Noticing these little things can be transformative, as they challenge our daily habits. Instead of getting irritated with that person, who is maybe having a bad day for reasons we can’t even guess, we choose a more gentle approach. Instead of berating ourselves for our many shortcomings, we seek grace to change. Instead of becoming angry and bitter, we choose to forgive. Changes in our daily habits and attitudes, can change the spiritual atmosphere, and open up possibilities for restoration and hope. 

In Luke 16;10a in Jesus story of the wise manager he says ‘ whoever can be trusted with small things, can often be trusted with big things.’ If we learn to slow down and pay attention to the details, the way we deal with these can be decisive as to how we deal with bigger issues. And so we pause to notice the significance of little things, and how God can use them to change the world for good or for harm. May we know that every decision we make, changes the world for good or bad, and may we prayerfully take time to choose what is better.

Eternal God, You created the vastness of the  heavens and the earth, but also the intricate details of a ladybird and the toes of a baby. You show such a creativity and imagination and goodness in all things, we give thanks and worship You. Lord Jesus, You called attention to the mite put in the collection by the widow, and spoke of the importance of the smallest mustard seed. May we live our lives faithfully, appreciating the small blessings, always grounded in your love, asking your Holy Spirit to guide us that everything we do, both big and small, should speak of your glory. Forgive us when we fail, and may we pray for our lives to spread ripples of love that might touch the lives of others, even without our knowing, Amen