details

A couple days ago my 8 year old plucked some tiny flowers from some weeds that were growing in our flower beds. "Mommy, look!" She exclaimed as she ran to me.  She carefully placed the flowers in my hands and smiled, "These are for you!"

I looked at the super tiny flowers and stood amazed at God's attention to detail. It's true that God created a lot of beauty in this world but these flowers are so tiny, that unless you took the time to get up close, you would never appreciate their splendor.  

I placed the flower on a dime, for size reference, and snapped a picture so you can see how itty-bitty they are! 

As I went about my day, I thought about all the details God included in His creation. He could have made things "good enough" but He went the extra mile every time! Everything He does is thoughtful, generous, over-the-top and lavish. What an extraordinary God we serve! 

Then I thought about the things I do and whether I reflect His character in the way I carry out my tasks. I guess I sometimes focus on details but that's usually because I'm particular about doing this a certain way. I'm not exactly detail-oriented out of love for God or for others. I'm just picky. 

Colossians 3:17 says, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." 

What a neat thought. In an effort to be more like Jesus, I'm decided to shift my thinking and complete tasks in the name of Jesus. 

When I sat down to play a complicated piano piece, I decided I wouldn't gloss over the complicated section like I always did. I would take the time to study the music, carefully, to honor God, the original Creator of the beauty of music. I wondered if He'd notice and appreciate my attention to His gift of music. 

I struggled with a section of the music for a long time, while my noisy kids came in and out of the room. After a few more minutes of focused study, it suddenly felt like God was the only other person in the room with me and I experienced the music in a new way. I closed my eyes while I carefully executed two challenging measures. Suddenly, I was not only hearing the music but I felt like I could see it too! Notes that had previously rolled into one sound each had their own voice and their own color. It was incredible! I never would have thought that doing everyday tasks for His glory could be so rewarding! 

There is so much joy and satisfaction in this life for those who want to live for Him. How do I get others to understand this?