The Butterfly Effect

You have been created in order that you might make a difference. You have within you 
the power to change the world. –Andy Andrews


It began as a Buddhist philosophy, the idea that something as insignificant as a butterfly’s flutter could have an effect on things halfway around the world. Years of scientific study and research have, indeed, proven the interconnectedness of all things. Like a pebble dropped in a pond, our actions, no matter how small, have a “ripple effect” in the world, often in unexpected ways. Imagine. . . .

It has been an emotional, challenging week, as reality came crashing down (again). Innocents died. The world grieves. Politicians posture. Fear lurks. Sometimes it has felt as though darkness has truly won, as if we are alone in the universe. Where is God in the midst of such stuff?

I wonder, sometimes, if God is asking the same question of us. Where are his faithful, believing followers? Why aren’t we doing something?

Is it because you are overwhelmed? Subtly believing that the pain and suffering in the world are just too great for one person to change? You’re right; the suffering is huge. And we cannot change the whole world.

But each one of us can change our own corner of the world. Each one of us can strike a match, light a candle, send a little light into our family, our neighborhood—our congregation.

How will you let your little light shine this week?


Monday Gratitude begins close to home. Give thanks to God for those in your life who are like family, whether blood relatives or simply dear friends. Choose at least one, and tell them how you feel. 1 Chronicles 16:1-36

Tuesday Consider sending a note of appreciation and thanks to someone you seldom see or speak with. Give thanks. Exodus 14:13-14

Wednesday As you prepare for Thanksgiving, reach out to someone who perhaps does not have anyone with whom to share a meal. Consider inviting someone to join you, or make plans to assist at a dinner for those in need, such as at St. Malachi. Matthew 25:31-40

Thursday If you choose to shop today, make an extra effort to be kind and generous with those whom you encounter. Thank the public servants who cannot take a holiday. Ezra 3:10-13

Friday If you choose to participate in Black Friday shopping, consider picking up an item for a local mission. Give thanks for God’s generosity in your life. Psalm 119:89-96

Saturday Today is Small Business Saturday. If you choose to shop today, consider choosing a local merchant. Your business is a big “thank you.” Proverbs 21:3

Sunday Today is the first Sunday in Advent. Spend some time in quiet stillness and reflect on the waiting that lies ahead. Matthew 2:1-18


Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can. –attributed to John Wesley

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