The Little Things

Catch all the foxes, those little foxes, before they ruin the vineyard of love, for the grapevines are blossoming. – Song of Songs 2:15

The Song of Songs is a breath of fresh air. The descriptive exchange between the Young Man and his Young Woman captures my heart and my special attention. This erotic poem is spoken between two lovers who celebrate each other with little compliments and grander exclamations of love. They’re quite a pair.

What if an outsider read your love story? Would she see a deep, abiding love in Christ? Would she see you learning and growing together in Him, or rather, would she see a relationship focused on small, petty things that threaten to destroy it? That’s the point of today’s passage.

Little things matter. In a relationship, commit to paying attention to the little things. Favorite songs, movies, hobbies, food, or even flowers are worth knowing because they show your love in a way that says “I care.” Think this little stuff isn’t a big deal? Check out a parable that Jesus tells in Matthew 25:14-30. At the end He tells His listeners, “You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21).

On the other hand, don’t sweat the small stuff!! When we focus on the little foxes – the time he forgot to do this, or the time she didn’t do that – our small frustrations can easily grow into anger. Ephesians 4:26-27 says, “Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.” Resolve to settle your differences quickly, and watch your relationships be all the healthier.

Only one thing matters. Remember the story of Mary and Martha? Martha was busy preparing a meal for Jesus while Mary sat patiently at Jesus’s feet, soaking up His presence. I feel for Martha. I really do. She gets a bad rap. Maybe she was having a bad day, and Mary seems indifference to her work caused he to fly off the handle. Jesus cut right to Martha’s heart. “My dear Martha,” He said, “you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41-42).

Prayer: May we appreciate the wonder that is your love while learning to celebrate those you bring into our path. Help us to let go of the little things and embrace the one thing that truly matters – you! Amen.