THE LITTLE THINGS

MARK 4:21-34

THE LITTLE THINGS

  “It is like a grain of mustard seed, which…is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet…it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs.” Mark 4:31

                                                                  

 Jesus’ comparing the Kingdom of God to a tiny mustard seed that grew to be great and useful made me think about the little kindnesses we can do, but so often overlook.  Like the tiny seed, our kindnesses can take root and grow into beautiful things in our lives and the lives of others, making our world a bit more like the kingdom of God.

At school a scowling adolescent may have left home hungry. She appears to be unreachable, and resents adults telling her what she should do.  But, a kind word complimenting her work, or a simple “I like those shoes,” acknowledging the new pair she wears proudly today, changes her attitude. Afterwards, when you pass her she greets you, not with a scowl but with a smile and a shy “hello”. 

Or you see an elderly man with an oxygen tank in tow, trying to manage his grocery cart and cane through the busy parking lot at Kroger. An offer to return cart back and save him steps brings a wide, genuine smile to his face.  His eyes crinkle at the corners and are moist as he thanks you.. 

Oh, how simple these small acts are!  How easily we fail to notice and do them. But they bring great joy and a glimpse of the Kingdom.  Let’s all spread some mustard seeds as we go through life! 

Dear Heavenly Father, please guide us to take opportunities to show small kindnesses that, like a mustard seed, might grow to be great deeds in our world.  Amen

~ Kim Richards