Let’s face it. In the hustle and bustle of the daily rush, we are so often faced with the question: Who has time? And the temptation to keep walking. After all, I didn’t do it, it’s not my problem, and I need to get to the house, or the game, or the meeting, or whatever on time. I mean, who am I, my brother’s freezer keeper?

Of course, life is about much more than produce, meats, and freezer sections. And precisely because it is, we need to consider: In what ways have I been so focused on what is directly relevant to me that I have forgotten that everything connects in some way, and therefore what’s seemingly irrelevant at this moment could be much more relevant than it seems?

Before you choose your action (or inaction), ask yourself: If everyone were to do (or not do) what I am about to do, would this place, other people, or the world be better or worse off?

Do you see the world as a series of seemingly irrelevant, unconnected events and people? Or do you see how every little thing you do could have ripple effects of eternal proportions?

It’s okay to pick up that empty can that missed the garbage can by an inch, or the kid’s clothes on the floor of the department store, even if it wasn’t your mess… To offer a kind comment and smile to the cashier who isn’t being that kind… To offer your shoulder, sincerely and unconditionally, to hold the bitter tears of someone who may have known, at some level, there would consequences for what he just did…

Lord, help us to live abiding in you and your love as the vine, and truly be your branches: agents of positive change, part of the difference in all things, including our smallest daily choices. Amen!