Those Little Deeds Can Matter  

Recently my five-year-old grandson was asked about what his favorite outdoor activities are. One might expect him to think about such doings as swimming, riding his bike, or playing ball. However, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that his first response to that inquiry was that he enjoyed coming over to our house and going for walks through our neighborhood with me. How sweet! You know that did good to this Papaw’s heart. Nevertheless, I still would not have expected that answer. I had gotten some indication that this grandson liked those little outings, but I wouldn’t have guessed that they would be one of the first items on his list of favorites. Those walks didn’t seem to be all that special or memorable, and certainly not spectacular. They have often consisted of simply walking along, watching the squirrels, stomping on fallen pine cones to make them crunch, finding a bird feather, and random small talk. I enjoy those times but had no idea my grandson valued them too.

It isn’t always the “big” things we do that matter most to other people or to God. Sometimes those seemingly small and insignificant actions can be more meaningful and valued. Think about the time when Jesus was watching various people who were contributing their gifts for an offering. He saw some individuals donating large amounts that no doubt would have been very helpful for the cause. However, Jesus singled out a widow who only gave two small coins. Everyone else looking on would have probably thought her gift was insignificant in comparison to what others were giving. But Jesus placed more value on her sacrificial donation, saying that she had contributed more than anyone else because out of her poverty she had given all that she had.  

On other occasions when Jesus spoke about the actions for which people will one day be judged, He spoke about such deeds as giving a cup of cold water to the thirsty, providing some food for the hungry, and visiting someone who is sick or in prison. He didn’t refer to occasions where we might get to share God’s Word or our testimony before thousands of people, or to our inspirational video that received thousands of views and likes on social media. No, He pointed to the small acts of everyday kindness we can show to others.

I am not suggesting that the big events don’t matter. They certainly can. Much good can be accomplished through the giving of big donations and the efforts of large groups with greater resources to reach people with the gospel and to help those in need. However, let’s not overlook or downplay the little, commonplace opportunities we are given to impact others and to serve the Lord. Let’s not get so focused on the occasional huge event, that we miss those everyday chances to be light in the darkness, to show God’s love, and to plant a seed of truth. A visit, a card, a thank you, a kind word, the proverbial cup of cold water, or even a walk through the neighborhood may mean more to that other person that some expensive gift or extravagant act.

Whether dealing with our grandchildren, our neighbor, or a complete stranger, let’s not overlook the value of the little things we can do. It may not seem like much, but it can be meaningful to other people. Additionally, it can get the favorable attention of Jesus. After all, He suggested that when we do those little kindnesses for others, it is like we are doing them for Him.

So let’s go do some little thing for Jesus today. It may mean more to someone, and to Him, than we realize.