Baby Steps

I am always amazed when the Lord opens doors for me and uses me. Last night I became aware of how sensitive I am to those baby steps in life; when I see progress in people or relationships and no one else around me gets it. In my youth, I was often accused of "beating a dead horse" because I just wouldn't give up, even when I should. Life taught me how unrealistic and exhausting that can be. I've come to realize of late that the optimism is still there though channeled better.

I believe that there is hope as long as there is breath. As long as there is hope, it is my obligation to show where that hope lies. I was so appreciative of the recent reminder that it isn't my job to "save" the world, but to plant the seeds so the Holy Spirit can work. As long as I reach out and love people, sharing God in a physical and/or spiritual sense, God can use me.

A week ago I felt I was alone on a battlefield because of people's judgment of others that I was feeling compassion toward. That experience taught me that it is a battlefield, but I'm not alone. I cannot believe that God has sent out support troops, and who those people are! Last night I saw progress, though small, with those people who were being judged a short week ago. I found myself not being concerned about what others thought of them, but just wanted to get to know them better. Until I know them, I can't share things with them. I don't know the language they talk (beyond English) and they need to know me to trust me. Years ago I would have been frustrated in my zealousness to not be further than I am in my witness. Today I appreciate the baby steps and see each and every one of them.