All the Small Things

     My oldest, Aowyn, starts kindergarten tomorrow.  I have never been a super sentimental person in the sense that I cry over little things (but I do SAVE every little thing!), and I don't anticipate tears to appear tomorrow.  We have made it through a year of preschool and a few weeks of summer school without them.  :)  But I am super excited (and this excitement is matched by hers!).  Anyway, as I was putting a picture of Aowyn's preschool graduation in a book to send to my grandma, I was thinking about how these small milestones rarely mean much to other people.  I always scoffed (internally) at people who made a big deal about their babies starting school, but now I find myself in the same position.  Sure, starting school doesn't seem as big an accomplishment compared to graduating high school, or college, but it is worth celebrating.
     I think that this attitude flows over into other areas as well, and we need to change it.  Someone getting up and receiving an offering, or welcoming people may not seem like a big deal, but God celebrates and rejoices over those little milestones.  Blogging may not seem like much, but it may be the beginning of writing books.  Playing a guitar and singing in a gym (with only the exit lights on!) for some fellow interns may not seem like an impressive setting or audience, but it can develop into leading a prayer group or congregation, and someday stadiums and conferences full of thousands.
     You may not care that my daughter is beginning to read and making friends, but she influences those surrounding her.  She is learning and growing.  And no matter what you do, you are learning and growing, and your circle of influence is expanding.  And God sees that and is applauding you! 
     Encourage people in the small things.  Some may grow and others may not seem significant, but they are all important.  "Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be."  Job 8:7
     "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Zechariah 4:10  What little things can you appreciate and rejoice in today?  Keep it up!  Start taking steps towards your dreams.  And know that God is excited about those steps, even if they aren't a big deal to others.  He is excited to see you begin!