IN THE SMALLEST OF SPACES

Jim and I have recently worshiped in two different church buildings.

The first was a large traditional sanctuary, with stained glass windows and an ornate decor that fostered an atmosphere of majestic reverence. When we sang the hymns, beautiful organ music resounded in the spaciousness, supplementing our individual voices scattered and diminished among the pews.

The second was a small rental space where about twenty of us were closely gathered on folding chairs. This time, our singing was accompanied by lovely music from a portable keyboard. Several of us noted how well our few voices filled the room, how our closeness fostered a deeper sense of community. Both experiences were reverent and meaningful, yet I found that the smaller space did not detract from our worship time but actually enhanced it.

I once again recognized how God’s presence and power are not limited by the size of God’s workspace.

God’s good growth arises from the smallest of seeds. God’s wise insight is revealed in a quiet, fleeting moment. God’s compassion is shared in one simple kindness. God’s healing begins with one timid prayer. God’s wondrous love is shown in one holy and lowly human being.

For every trial and challenge in this life, we can be encouraged and reassured to remember…

God’s infinite goodness can flow from the smallest of spaces.

God can work through our small selves and humble efforts to bring about God’s greater purposes of love and peace. Every individual act of lovingkindness has the potential to bring about greater lovingkindness, because God’s presence unites with and expands the acts of each caring person around the world.

And God’s infinite goodness can fill the smallest of spaces.

God can fill a few quiet moments, an earnest seeking heart, a briefly whispered plea, or a tender confession with the gifts of infinite guidance and immense love. When we open the door of our innermost souls just a bit, God’s wondrous presence can fill us to overflowing.

In every humble, faithful space we offer to God, there is enormous potential–and plenty of room–for God to bring about its higher and holier purpose.

(Photo by Karen)