Influence

It is not necessarily the great things we hope to achieve that will impact others most, but the consistent manner in which we perform the everyday things.

When reminiscing, very few find they've lived the dream anticipated in youth; grey hairs as much a sign of angst as wisdom it seems.

Yet years do add their age-etched counsel into our lives, and few more poignantly than the effects of our influence. In fact nothing proves this more forcefully than times passage. We see it in our children as they age, unwittingly imitating us; faults and all. We see it in other relationships, both thriving and dead, dependent upon the effort we put into them. We see it even in our own bodies, the undeniable testimony of decades of care and/or neglect.

As historically insignificant as we might think ourselves, our influence will continue long after we are gone. For most of us that influence will not be established via news worthy feats, but in going through the mundane motions of life, and doing them poorly or well; the repeated attitudes we portray while cooking a meal for our family; the level of interest we are known to show at the words and concerns of others; the behaviour we demonstrate most regularly when frustrated. Everyday things, done either mindfully or in disregard to their impact. These mount up as the most powerful influencers in others lives.

True, mentors may shine brightest, but their light normally reaches us well after those far nearer and dearer.

Which got me thinking: Is the impact of my mundane life such that others are influenced consistently toward the better? As a Christian, could God use the everyday things of my life to influence others to greatness; like a Jesse to David; a Mordecai to Ester; a Mary to Jesus. Or even simply motivate others to faith; like a Grandmother to Timothy; a Jewish slave girl to Namaan; a Naomi to Ruth.

Humans tend to admire and aspire to greatness, and not necessarily the vain egotistical kind but the truly admirable also. Athletes, musicians, authors, scientists, philosophers and theologians, these we esteem while longing similar heights of accomplishment for ourselves.

But let us be mindful that we have the greater privilege and everyday opportunity to personally and deeply influence those dearest and nearest us, simply by doing the everyday things well.

Whether your fifteen, fifty or one hundred, your influence is no further away than the next thing you do.

Greatness can wait its turn, do the next thing well ...which in my case happens to be the dishes.

Jesus said, “I tell you, if a person can be trusted with small things, he may also be trusted with big things...”

Luke 16:10