No Small Parts

"Let us remember, there is One who daily records all we do for Him, and sees more beauty in His servants' work than His servants do themselves . . . And then shall His faithful witnesses discover, to their wonder and surprise, that there never was a word spoken on their Master's behalf, which does not receive a reward."

- J. C. Ryle

This week, many Churches in the Western world celebrate All Saint’s Day. A few well-known Christian leaders have their own special days of recognition, but it’s nice to have one day set aside to commemorate all those who have gone before and served in relative obscurity.

God seems to have put a few remarkable people in the spotlight, but most of us are asked to minister faithfully, fulfilling bit parts in God’s great drama.

All Saint’s Day reminds us of the centuries of sacrifices made on our behalf, and it inspires us to faithfully fulfill the charge that has been entrusted to us.

When the writer of Hebrews concludes his list of well-known Heroes of the Faith, he reflects on a series of events experienced by a host of nameless, sacrificial contributors to God’s work: “They were stoned; they were sawed in two; they were put to death by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated.”(Hebrews 11:37)

We don’t know their names, but we honor them for their sacrifice and service. And we pray that we will play the part God has designed for us, whether on a prominent platform or in an obscure outpost.