Recently, I wrote and recorded a song called “Dream Small”. That sounds backwards, right? We’re told to dream big, to make larger-than-life plans, to set lofty goals, and to change the world in a massive way.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not against big goals, big dreams, or big change. After all, we were created by an infinite God, who can do infinitely big things.
“Dream Small” is a reminder that the little things matter. They always matter.
Watch the official lyric video of Josh Wilson’s new song, “Dream Small”:
When I was in high school, I played percussion in the school band. If you’ve ever seen a symphony orchestra, you’ll know that, despite the massive sound coming from the stage, each musician is only playing a single instrument. Each person reads a single piece of music and follows one conductor.
The Christian life can be like that. We’ve all been given this “instrument” of our lives, and we are each supposed to play the music that God, our great conductor, places in front of us each day.
While on tour, I get to travel to many places in the United States and around the world. I’m amazed and encouraged by the people I encounter. I’ve met pastors, doctors, students, full-time parents, truck drivers, nurses, farmers, social workers, and even NASA scientists. All the people I’ve met have led very unique lives, but we all share one thing in common. We’re here to shine the light of Jesus into the darkness. That looks a little different for each of us, but the basics are the same.
It boils down to Jesus’ two great commandments:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” Mark 22:37-39
I don’t know where you work, go to school, or spend your free time. But, I do know that God has given you an instrument and a piece of music, and only you can play it. You have relationships and opportunities I never will. You have a chance to show God’s love to each person you encounter on a daily basis. Only you can play your irreplaceable instrument, and this world needs your music.
By all means, go after those big dreams and plans God has placed in your heart. But, along the way, don’t forget to notice the little ways you can show love and kindness.
Every note counts, so let’s all play our part.