Small things

Do you sometimes wonder if small things make an impression?

Experience proved, once again, that people do connect actions and remember.

Our household has a special affinity for St. Francis of Assisi. We have quoted his admonition to a young monk often as a part of our work representing Habitat for Humanity to churches as we were seeking partners for the building projects in Apple Valley and Orange County, CA. Those words, “preach the gospel every day and if necessary use words” remind Tim and I that many times the only message that people hear are the messages of action.

A year and a half ago, when I began the work as director of outreach for St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, I was looking for information about the community. I went to the Town of Apple Valley website and checked out the community events. It just so happened that the Summer Concert Series was just kicking off. In 2010, it was possible for a community group to rent a venders space to be present at the event. We could distribute information about the work of Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD), hand out bottled water (a simple reminder of the relief work that was done in Haiti following their earthquake), and receive donations for ERD’s work. Our members had a good time coming out each week. We gave away about a case of water each night and sent in a small donation of about $45 at the end of the six weeks.

Fast forward thirteen months.

Recently Tim was in a conversation in Apple Valley at a public venue. His conversation was interrupted by someone who overheard him give the name of our church. This woman said “oh, that’s the church that gave out water at the summer concert last year isn’t it?” Tim’s reply, “well yes it is!”

Today’s gospel message about the judgment of the nations reminds us that every person is a vessel, and Christ considers each person served the same as if we served him. Living with this idea ever present is living out an incarnational theology.

You are always a public person.

Bear the light of Christ in all that you do.