Who Cares If We Are Outnumbered?

14 Feb

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”  ~ Margaret Mead

All through our lives, we hear a phrase many times over:  “There is strength in numbers.”  It becomes a mantra for many people as they try to get others to join their team, their cause, their club, or whatever.  They feel that they will be unsuccessful if they cannot get a large group of people on their side.  Tain’t so.

Is it good to have a large group of people on our side?  Yes.  Does it feel good to know that many people agree with our position?  Absolutely.  Do we necessarily need everyone on our side?  No.  Mead reminds us that numbers are not ultimately necessary.  What is necessary is commitment.  Oodles and oodles of people not committed to a cause is the perfect definition of chaos, not success.

When we attempt to live our faith, we want to have numbers around us.  We feel good going to Mass and seeing lots of other people there worshipping with us.  It gives us strength and comfort.  However, when God calls us to do something, we might not have a lot of people around.  It’s not the quantity, it’s the quality that will matter.  It’s the commitment to a cause that will be important.

Fear not if you are setting forth in your faith life with very few accompanying you.  If you find one or two who are deeply committed to the faith, that will be enough.  They will give you the courage that you need and will be with you when you need help.  Who knows?  Maybe the few of you will touch the lives of others — many others — and you will find great numbers building because of a small group of thoughtful, committed people.

FAITH ACTION:  Don’t let the lack of numbers alarm you.  Instead, if you know that you are in the right, go it with a few and know that the Lord will bless your endeavors.