Stick Pin

 by Macy Johnson

“Who despises the day of small things?”

(Zechariah 4:10 NIV)

 

It was the final rehearsal before the memorial service. Forty-eight former students filled the choir of Fort Walton Beach’s First Presbyterian Church. A basket of stick pins was passed around the loft. The pins had a beautiful silk yellow rosebud attached. It was Phyllis Merritt’s favorite flower. I accepted the small rose in memory of my high school choir director.

 

I nervously fumbled with my pin. When I removed the small, metal cover that protected the point, it slipped out of my hand to the carpeted floor. I searched diligently for the lost piece then released it from my thoughts. I realized it was a small way of leaving something of me behind in that sacred space.

 

Our choir sang five pieces during the service. The pastor in his message reminded us of the secret of silence in music and creation. He called us to be still and listen for a full minute, pushing all distractions aside. “What did you hear?” he asked.  

 

Small things in life such as memorial pins and moments of silence fill the tapestry of our walk with the Holy Spirit. All are used by Him to remind us of His amazing love and grace. 

 

A devotional I read the morning after Miss Merritt’s service reminded me that my loved ones who have gone ahead are waiting at the table of Jesus’ feast for me to arrive. I know when I enter, hand in hand with my host, many faces behind Him will rejoice at my appearance. I cannot imagine what joy awaits us on the other side of this life. I might need a pin prick to prove I am not dreaming.

 

I will look for Jesus in all the stick pins and small stuff around me today. I hope you will, too!