Faithfulness is in the Details

By Rev. Tom Parkinson

My son Isaac recently graduated from basic training in the U.S. Air Force. Among the stories he told us was of a day when one of his fellow trainees was scolded by the training instructor for failing to properly put away his socks. “If I can’t trust you with socks, how can I trust you with my Air Force?” the instructor bellowed.

Military training is known to demand attention to small details. From making your bed, to folding your shirts, to how long it takes you to shower – every detail is scrutinized. Such scrutiny reflects the belief that habits formed in ordinary moments can matter enormously when the stakes are high. If Airmen are to be trusted to get the important things right when lives are at stake, they first must show they can be faithful in the mundane things.

Jesus makes a similar point in Luke 16:10, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”

Jesus was speaking specifically about faithfulness in the way we handle what has been entrusted to us. But the principle reaches beyond our possessions. Following Jesus means learning to become people who are faithful in the ordinary, everyday details of life. Our faithfulness to Christ is not only revealed by how we act during the major moments – when the lights are on and everyone is watching. Our faithfulness is also revealed by our willingness to pray in secret, tell the truth when a convenient lie would go unnoticed, or humbly serve when no one is looking.

As you take your next step in following Christ, pay attention to the small details. Those small acts of faithfulness are what shape a faithful life.  We don't practice these small acts of faithfulness to earn God's love; we practice them because we have already received his grace and want our everyday lives to reflect it. What is one small act of faithfulness God is inviting you to give attention this week?