Small Things

Yesterday was a “day of small things.”

I love big hairy audacious goals (BHAGs). I love inspiring vision and a sense of being part of a kingdom movement. So were God’s people in the Old Testament.

Zechariah was a priest born in exile. As a young man he was allowed, along with others, to return from Babylon to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. The Israelites started out tackling this BHAG with great enthusiasm, but soon encountered obstacles. Those rebuilding the temple became totally discouraged and felt like their best efforts were insignificant and unappreciated. Can you relate? 

Zechariah offers spiritual strength and encouragement: "Who despises the day of small things? Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel" (Zechariah 4:10).

Zerubbabel is the governor of Jerusalem who is leading this disheartened group of builders. In verse 6 it says, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit.” 

There it is again! Sometimes we get addicted to flash when substance may be found in the quieter, “smaller” moments.

In America we’re trained to think bigger is better, but we also need to recognize and acknowledge the small things . . . small things that may represent spiritual breakthrough or a marking moment. 

Many days I can get down on myself and “despise the day of small things.” I feel like I’m not aiming high enough, not seeing God-sized dreams realized. 

However, yesterday I experienced a tiny victory . . . a “small thing.” I was able to share a word of relational caution with someone I care about and it was received in love and with appreciation. That may be meaningless to you, but in my world it was a moment to be marked and celebrated. A small thing that was a reminder that God isn’t finished with me yet. 

Do you have trouble celebrating the days of “small things”? Is there someone around you who needs to be reminded that his or her efforts are not insignificant in the economy of God?

Laura Crosby serves as Director of Spiritual Formation for The Table at CPC

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