In a recent gathering with fellow creatives at Laity Lodge Family Camp, a moment of profound reflection emerged from an unexpected source: a song. Andy Gullahorn, a talented musician and speaker, shared a new piece that resonated deeply, especially two lines that encapsulated a powerful truth:
“Knowing small things matter is really no small thing.
Knowing small things matter changes everything.”
These lyrics from the “Small Things Song” immediately struck a chord, highlighting our common tendency to overlook the significance of minor actions in our lives, particularly in our spiritual journeys. We often set grand, ambitious goals – aiming for monumental changes and overlooking the power of incremental steps. Whether it’s resolving to run a marathon or consume a vast library of books, these aspirations, while admirable, can overshadow the quiet yet transformative influence of the “small things.”
Group activities at Laity Lodge Family Camp, highlighting community and fellowship
This insightful “small things song” serves as a gentle reminder against the pressure we often place on ourselves, especially in nurturing our spiritual growth and that of our families. We might feel compelled to orchestrate elaborate family devotionals or fret about not conducting enough bible studies with our children. We worry about the depth of spiritual conversations, when perhaps the real key lies in recognizing that “knowing small things matter is really no small thing.”
Jesus himself understood this principle intimately. In John 15:12, He gave a seemingly simple yet profoundly impactful commandment: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” The concept is straightforward – to love others as divinely loved – yet the execution is a lifelong journey. This isn’t about grand gestures alone, but about the consistent, small acts of love that mirror God’s love for us. It’s in these everyday moments that spiritual formation truly takes shape.
Consider these questions for reflection:
- Are you currently pursuing a New Year’s resolution that feels attainable and simple? What is it, and how is it progressing?
- In what small, meaningful way can you extend love to someone today, reflecting the love God has shown you?
- Are there self-imposed pressures regarding your family’s spiritual development that you could release, in favor of embracing smaller, more consistent actions? What might those smaller actions be?
By shifting our focus to the “small things song” philosophy, we begin to appreciate the extraordinary impact of ordinary moments and actions in fostering love, growth, and genuine spiritual formation.
