The Day of Small Things

Journal entry from 8 years ago.

August 22, 2015

“Who despises the day of small things?” Zech. 4:10a

Zerubbabel was rebuilding the temple. Compared to the glorious temple of King Solomon, his efforts seemed small and insignificant. Yet God said, “Men will rejoice when they see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel” (Zech. 4:10b).

Many times, my efforts seem very small and insignificant. How will changing diapers, pushing a stroller, and washing dirty dishes amount to anything of importance?

Can I trust God to create meaning and purpose from the ordinary and routine chores of my life?

Perhaps when the sun sets for me in this life and I see my time on earth from a heavenly perspective, things that seemed small and ordinary will beam with purpose.

Will many rejoice with me as we see how the mundane produced patience,

The insignificant bloomed into humility,

And the daily grind rubbed off the rough edges to create a clearer reflection of our Savior?

I choose to embrace the day of small things.

January 19, 2024

Reflections on the birth of our fifth child, Joseph:

Having a child at 42 is surprising! I thought the day of small things was long over. Time to adjust expectations.

Bibs and onesies

Bottles and pacifiers

Diapers and burp cloths

Can my 40-year-old body handle this?

My friends are looking forward to being empty-nesters and I am starting over.

Are you in the day of small things?

Do you feel that your life is ordinary and insignificant?

How can you find meaning and purpose in the routine and mundane activities of your day?

Heavenly Father,

I still struggle with being content with my station in life. Somedays I feel like I am on an endless treadmill of housework and homeschooling. Open my eyes to your perspective. Soothe the frayed nerves. Calm the agitated emotions. Remind me of the precious moments of being a stay-at-home mom. Replace envy with thankfulness. Infuse my soul with your abiding joy and perfect peace.

The “surprise” baby boy will soon be 10 years old!

Joseph Kramer, our unexpected blessing!