For God is not unrighteous to forget or overlook your labor and the love which you have shown for His name’s sake in ministering to the needs of the saints (His own consecrated people), as you still do. Hebrews 6:10 Amplified Bible

I smelled smoke today on our walk around the block. It took a valiant effort to get two crying, not-feeling-so-well toddlers out of the house for some fresh air. Have you ever tried putting your shoes on while little hands are wrapped around your legs? Pretty clever if you can! We finally made it! Andrew enjoyed walking through the melting snow while Nathan was content to just hang out in the stroller. As we approached the last corner, dark billows of smoke caught my attention. I sniffed the air. Someone must be snuggled up next to their fireplace this afternoon, I thought. But no, the rooftops were clear of smoke. Where was it coming from? Growing concerned, I decided to investigate.

As we detoured up the road I thought how grand it would be if we were the only ones to have witnessed this fire and could call for help. I felt for my cell phone, just in case. We were scarcely up the next block, however, when it became apparent no call would be made. An outdoor grill was the source of the billowing smoke and campy smell. Silently, I turned Andrew around and headed for home. Well, I won’t be a hero today, I sighed disappointedly.

As we trudged along, I looked down at my darlings who were happily soaking up the sunshine and breathing in the fresh air. Tears had vanished and bird calls beckoned them to their own investigation. We chatted with a chick-a-DEE DEE DEE in the bush. “Grandma Alice” was waiting for us with a cheery hello. A warm smile spread across her face as she saw Nathan’s hand wave and his new little “bye-bye” come from his lips. Once home, chilly fingers warmed up and coats were shed. Supper would soon be served. Andrew greeted Daddy with a “Welcome Home!”

We told Daddy about seeing the chickadee and Nathan mimicked, “Dee dee dee.” My own smile brightened my face as I realized that I may not be a typical hero, but I know I’m making a difference in these lives around me. You are too. I know sometimes it seems like it would be more glamorous or thrilling, or even more mentally stimulating to do something heroic….save a whale, jump tall buildings in a single bound or even report a fire….

If you’re tempted to feel unimportant today, let God bring truth straight to your heart. You are a hero in the now. You matter! You do so many little things every day. Tasks so often unnoticed, repetitive and mundane. On behalf of those who you serve, I say THANK YOU! So thrive in the now, build happy memories in the mundane, and accept your role with thankfulness. And when the time comes for you to step up and do that one brave act, you’ll be ready! I’ve got my phone at hand, set to call in the firemen…just have to find a real fire next time.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=heb%206:10&version=AMP