One Little City

 Never underestimate the small stuff. As caregivers, sometimes it's the smallest gestures that mean the most. A couple of years ago, I had gone up to see my mom for Mother's Day. On the way home, I stopped at a local lake just to see if it was accessible. I was pushing my son out to see the water, and a young man passed. He suddenly stopped, turned around, and said, "Happy Mother's Day." I felt his genuine compassion, and with tears sneaking up in my eyes, I quietly said, "thank you." No one else had thought to tell me HMD. And, of course, my son can't. Even though it was from a total stranger - it meant so much.

The smallest things often weigh the most. I thought about some of these things as I was reading in Micah this morning. In chapter 5, he's talking about the small city of Bethlehem. He says you are only a small village in Judah.  But then, the prophet goes on to prophesy about the birth of Christ, and he says, Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you. Wow - It's like - Hey, you tiny little city - nothing noteworthy about you at all. But the Prince of Peace is going to choose you to make His entry into time! 

Later on, Micah goes on to say that He will be the source of our peace. I love that. God chooses the simplest ways to bless us, doesn't He? It's possible we would have never heard of Bethlehem if Jesus hadn't come through there. But because it's a part of the "Christmas Story," we have all heard about this tiny little town, which has since grown to be a large one. 

Sometimes, in our days, it's the smallest things that can set us off (maybe that's just me!), and it's the smallest things that touch our hearts. I card from a friend. I phone call. Just someone choosing to be nice instead of acting out. A young man who opens the door for you as you're trying to get in the store. There are lots of these small acts that weigh so much. Sometimes, His peace just overwhelms me. It's not often, but I don't take it for granted. It is usually when I need it most. Maybe I just sense His grace to handle a situation with a client or suddenly know how to adjust my schedule so the day goes smoother and Chris and I can both have our needs met. It's certain that He shows up in the most unusual ways sometimes. I mean, come on - Bethlehem? lol.

Today, I will remind myself to look for those little signs that He is right here with me. I will purposefully wait for Him before making decisions or making a move of any kind. I'll acknowledge His presence as I go about my usual caregiving chores. And I will wait for His peace. Will you join me?