small deeds matter

Jesus wants us to consider what it means in actual day-to-day practice to be his faithful followers. He says, “The one who is faithful in very little, will be faithful in much.” What do you hear is this word?  Here’s what I hear. 

The small, often hidden, gestures matter greatly, like the cup of water given to the thirsty (of mind and body,) the visit made to the lonely one, showing up for the sick, being a neighborly neighbor, sharing a meal with the homebound, welcoming lost one who shows up in church by offering a seat next to you, celebrating the sacraments and hearing the gospel, week after week day after day. These ordinary acts of faithfulness - that can seem so small - cumulate in a way of life that honors God’s kingdom in this fallen world. My pastoral care professor, years ago made a comment I still remember: “We find it difficult to do the little things that fulfill the promises we make to one another and to God.” We say one thing, then forget to show up, we get distracted by one more thing.  All talk, no walk. 

Yet! Yet! He said “For Jesus, the essence of love is to be faithful even to “the least of these,” and to disdain no one as too small, is real love. The theological word for this is incarnation.” Walk in this way. The way of love.

Pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago traditionally greet one another with “Buen Camino” which means Good walking. The response is “Ultreia” which means something like “Always forward in God. Steady on!” Let us then say to one another:  Steady on! 

Sermon “Small Deeds Matter” (Excerpt) 
Luke 16:1-13
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church