The Little Moments

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (Romans 8:26-30 ESV).

Tomorrow I’ll be going to the hospital for a very simple surgical procedure. It should be without complication though the doctors will be prepared for any possibility given my past health history. I suppose that ought to concern me, though I can truthfully say it is the least of my worries. I’m more concerned with not being able to travel down to the hill country and see the bluebonnets that are now in full bloom! Perhaps next week will be just as beautiful. This though did give me pause to recall the wonderful plan and purpose of God. Our reading today underscores the meme I found, “Life is not a matter of milestones, but of moments.” When we truly trust the Lord to work our good from every experience, there is nothing too simple or insignificant that we experience. Every day we have an opportunity to find God; every day we have an opportunity to let God into our lives, to appreciate God’s work, to make a small difference in some else’s life, or to serve. Perhaps there is someone in need, someone who is searching, or someone who is not looking at all, not thinking, but that one act of kindness on my part, one act of grace could bring them to the realization that God is there, in their lives, reaching out, yearning to be embraced. I like to help people. I like to help fix things and solve problems. I like to give directions. I like to help people at Home Depot or Lowes who may be looking for something or trying to decide what to buy to solve their “do it yourself” problem. They are easy to spot. Sometimes I pass a complete stranger that looks like they could just use a smile and a kind word. I came to the realization that God presents me with opportunities every day to make a small difference in people’s lives. If I can make someone think, “that was nice, he didn’t have to do that” then I was part of God’s plan that day. I’m also reminded of the times when I passed those opportunities by and didn’t act on the moment. I realize all too often I come up short. Fortunately, thanks to God, if I just pay attention, I’ll get another chance tomorrow. Join me and look for those moments. I wonder who I’ll be able to help among those who will be helping me tomorrow!