“Now, I can see that one loving gesture is practically divine. We have to do small things and believe a big difference is coming. It’s like the miraculous drops of water that seep through mountain limestone. They gather themselves into springs that flow into creeks that merge into rivers that find their way to oceans. Our work is to envision the drops as oceans. We do our small parts and know a powerful ocean of love and compassion is downstream. Each small gesture can lead to liberation. The bravest thing we can do in this world is not cling to old ideas or fear of judgment, but step out and just do something for love’s sake.”
These words come from friend and colleague Becca Stevens. As the founder of Thistle Farms, Becca has dedicated her ministry to “helping women survivors recover and heal from prostitution, trafficking, and addiction.” At her core, Becca embodies the belief that all have gifts to be discerned and empowered to make a difference.
“We have to do small things and believe a big difference is coming.” Many are motivated, even feel a deep sense of call to make a difference, but are hesitant believing that both the ‘thing’ is too overwhelming and our contribution is woefully inadequate. Yet as Becca offers, our drop of water combined with other drops of water have the miraculous power to become an entire ocean.
Each of us is uniquely created…uniquely gifted…all are called to be part of making a difference.
One of the greatest blessings I have is walking with leaders, groups and communities that intentionally invite individuals to offer their unique gifts with others to actually make a difference. Collaboration builds capacity…one drop of water becomes part of a mighty ocean. Many gifts, one body, transforming the world.
“May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.” – A favorite Blessing of the Franciscan Friars
BP