There’s joy in the small things. If you have never taken the time to stop and really think about that, you may be missing out on a key part of the joy God so freely gives. I am fortunate to witness the joy of the small things in my day-to-day work as the Streets Ministry Coordinator. There’s an apartment complex I visit regularly because I am aware of the unfavorable conditions of the structure and the people who reside there. Today, just like any other day, I pulled up with my volunteer and we get out of the van to serve the people approaching. We were approached by a young boy who looked to be no older than 4. As he ran toward us, he had one hand out, “asking” for a sack lunch. He smiled when his request was granted and ran away to tell his buddies what he had just received. While we were still serving others, the little boy returned to ask for two more lunches, thinking they would be for other friends or members of his family. We were wrong! As we were exiting the apartment complex, we saw the little boy, sitting under a tree with all three lunches. He smiled and waved as we drove away.
What power something as simple as a sack lunch and soda have! The power to put a smile on a little boy’s face while he sits under a tree enjoying the beauty of nature created by God all around him. Luke 10:21(NIRV) says,”At that time Jesus was full of joy through the Holy Spirit. He said, “I praise you, Father. You are Lord of heaven and earth. You have hidden these things from wise and educated people. But you have shown them to little children. Yes, Father. This is what you wanted to do.” When was the last time you stopped to appreciate the small things, the gentle breeze, the warmth of the sun on your skin? I challenge you to find joy in the small things!
Misti Mitchell
Streets of Omaha Volunteer Coordinator