Small Parts

There Are No Small Parts

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” 1^st Corinthians 13:1-2 NIV

“The richest most meaningful stories are found in small places: made, carried, crafted, told, and retold by apparently unimportant people.” — Louise Brown

There are no small parts in the Kingdom of God. There are offices in the Church, but they are “servant leadership” positions. Jesus was born in the most humble settings and lovingly bathed the disciples’ dusty, smelly, calloused feet at the Last Supper. Paul had every blessing a Pharisee could have such as fame, money, and status – Then his road to Damascus. Paul had not learned love, yet he became the author of love through his words and actions.

We all have a road to Damascus. When we’re young and starting life, our dreams of being a rock star, actor, celebrity or neurosurgeon are the stuff that keeps us going. The visions of fame, never-ending accolades, and an overflowing bank account fill us with happiness.  But… The problem is where we, the everyday, nothing special persons, start. Cleaning bedpans does not seem to be an education in medicine. Running petty errands for a fickle celebrity tarnishes the dream. Playing in front of an audience of one is humbling. After the magical wedding, dirty dishes and a full clothes hamper are overwhelming. This is the stuff of love. It’s humbling. It isn’t about us. It’s about Him. He loved us first. The small parts.

Musings

Down Syndrome children have No degree. No qualifications. No independence. No experience. No visions or goals but can they love! My mother used to drive a school bus for those with mental disabilities and the joy they showed her was indescribable. My mom would be in a good mood in the evening on these workdays. The family enjoyed the benefits of a loving mom because of these special children. Every morning the kids would act like it was a homecoming when she picked them up for school. Hugs and compliments were mom’s when she drove these children home. She always signed up to drive those special needs kids because of the love for her and her for them. Small part. Big love. It spread to our family and others.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for the Man who turned the world upside-down starting with His small parts. We remember his many examples of true greatness like praising the widow worshiping at the synagogue who put a penny into the offering. Help us to appreciate and encourage our small parts and others’ small parts.

Amen.