The Low-Shelf and Low-Tree Things

I still remember my own two little ones when they were toddlers — and later my Nana treasures — those bright-eyed grandchildren with their curious fingers and determined little steps.

I learned early on that anything low-shelf was fair game. So before they’d arrive, up went the glass bells, the porcelain keepsakes, and yes — the Nativity figures. Well… almost all of them.

One Christmas, my grandson quietly “borrowed” Baby Jesus from the manger. Moments later, his little sister cried out, “Where is Baby Jesus?!” And there he was — tucked lovingly under her big brother’s arm like the most precious treasure in the house.

Those are the kinds of moments that taught me the value of the low-shelf things.

In this holy season of Advent, I’m reminded again that God has always worked through the low and the small. A mustard seed of faith. A boy’s tiny lunch. A widow’s two coins. A simple sparrow. And of course — a newborn baby laid in a lowly manger.

The world tells us the meaningful life is found in the high-shelf places — spotlights, stages, applause, and recognition. But Jesus chose the low shelf. And He still does.

Maybe the low-shelf things in our lives look like:
silly text threads with a dear friend,
fresh bread on the table,
whispered prayers,
quiet tears when a song stirs the soul,
or a child’s small hand slipping into ours.

These are the things that shape a life of meaning.
Advent whispers, “Slow down.”
Look low.
Pay attention.
The miracle is already close to the ground.

And perhaps, like those children reaching for Baby Jesus, we don’t need to look up so high to find what matters most.
Because when God came to us, He came low.

And if God is paying attention to the small things — I want to pay attention too.

Dear Lord, thank You for the low-shelf gifts of life. Slow our hearts this Advent so we don’t miss the small wonders that carry Your great presence. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

#advent #smallthingsinlife #children #slowdown