Its the Little Things that Count

      In this season when we think about gift giving, we often think of the big things we can buy or do for the ones we love; yet, in reality, the love of Christ is best demonstrated in the small acts of kindness we do for others.  Let me give an example.

     This year, Thanksgiving was different for us.  Having had knee surgery, I wasn't able to stand for hours working on pies and various side dishes. So, our children volunteered to make all the sides, get the desserts and cook the turkey.  They took care of the dishes as well, and as an added bonus, they got out our Christmas decorations and put them up for us.  This was such a blessing!  This is the type of gift that money cannot buy.  We often overlook these little things but Jesus reminded his disciples in Luke 16:10a:  "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much..."  Character is often revealed in the many small acts of kindness we show to others.

     During this time of celebrating the birth of Christ, what are some of the little things we can do, then, to bless others?  Some are so simple, we might overlook them.  I belong to a Post Polio Support Group and a member once mentioned that she felt overlooked when she was in a store because she was riding a scooter.  She said that people rarely take time to look at her since she is
seated when passing them.  I picked up on this, and now, when I am in a store, I take the time to look at those in a wheelchair or on a scooter and look them in the eye.  A smile and a kind word go a long way.  Acknowledging someone rather than ignoring them is a gift of love to that person.

     Another little thing we can do is to call someone and ask how they are doing.  Phone calls are the next best thing to an actual physical visit.  At this time, many are uncomfortable with in person get togethers, but we have things like FaceTime, Zoom, Facebook Messenger video chat and other possibilities.  When God lays a person on your heart, take it as a reminder to contact them and pray with them.  It could make their day!

     Sending a card or a note in the mail is also a blessing.  I often think of Berdene Johnson (now home with the Lord) who had a faithful  card ministry.  Every year, she sent my husband and I a card on our anniversary.  Few people even remember your wedding day so its a treat to receive a special card.  Being remembered by Christian friends can lift a heart.

     Finally, we can offer a helping hand if someone is moving or needs some cleaning done.  This is a blessing if the person is ill or just needs assistance with a big job that needs to be completed.  While we are helping them, we can be sharing the love of Christ with them as well.  Fellowship and work often go hand in hand.  Proverbs 3:27 tells us:  "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it."  This is a great reminder to all of us to do those little things we often neglect.

     Our lives keep us busy with so many activities daily that it is easy to overlook the little things that could make the lives of others so much better.  We take it for granted that friends and family know we love them, but when we show them by blessing them in a simple manner, it enriches not only their life but ours as well.   Let us look for ways to shine the light of Christ into the hearts of those around us this Christmas season.  We will never regret the time we spend in doing the little things for others.  Selah!