Decades ago I sat in a community meeting talking about donations. The questions circled around donations made to specific causes versus those made for the program’s budget. A wise old man made an observation that has carried with me ever since.
“If it makes them feel better, I am happy to have their donations go directly to what they think are the “important” things. My donations will go for the trash, utilities bills, and the janitor. What difference does it matter if it is for the cause?”
Why do we do what we do? Does our position matter? Should we worry about the perceptions that others have of our status and standing?
The reality of it all is that each performs a task that only has meaning when it finds itself in a community. Regardless of its perceived importance, in reality we are simply pieces to a puzzle. While certain actions might appear more important because they seem unique or special, in reality “what makes them worth doing is the God we are serving. You happen to be God’s field in which we are working.” (1 Corinthians 3.9) In making a difference, our actions have value. In helping others, our choices find context. In striving for more, we discover our calling.
In the interim, it may seem as if we are stuck in the menial. The routine of our lives appears blasé. Nothing seems to be more than a series of steps. Yet in each is a unique opportunity for you and I to be present. We can engage in the mundane of life and make a difference – to ourselves as well as those around us.
This is a not a path for those that want immediate success. Reward can be found in the routine of life. When another speaks of inspiration, be encouraged. When another says that s/he believes, know that hope is in the room. When another is willing to stand up for what is right, know that you have accomplished your mission. Life offers us signs when we are responding to the call.
