Extra-Ordinary

by Andrew Cromwell

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is smaller than what we think. We look at the most successful people and business organizations and believe that they have either been extremely lucky or possess some special talent that puts them ahead of the crowd. And while it is true that some do possess great talent and have experienced good fortune, these are not the people of whom I’m thinking.

Forget all the famous people and the multi-billion dollar organizations. Consider the extraordinary people you know. They are our friends and neighbors whose lives are making a meaningful and significant difference in our community. They look just like us on the outside. They don’t have big salaries and they are not particularly talented. Very often, these people don’t leave a big estate behind them when they die, but they do leave a legacy of changed lives.

What makes these people different? What makes them extraordinary? Well, I believe their secret is that they have simply added something a little “extra” to their ordinary lives. They have decided that they are going to put a little “extra” effort into things. They have dedicated a little “extra” time to things that matter. And they have chosen to have a little “extra” attitude (the positive kind).

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is nothing more then this little “extra.” A little extra decision to invest in those things that are worthwhile. A little extra choice to focus on that which is positive and life-inspiring. A little extra encouragement given to those all around.

We all would do well to take a lesson from the extraordinary people around us. They remind me of the verse in the Bible in Galatians that says, “So let’s not get tired of doing good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”

Imagine what would happen if more of us decided that we were going to just invest a little more time and energy into the things that matter—our families, our communities, our marriages. My guess is that we would see a lot more extraordinary things happen.

This weekend, why don’t you consider investing a little “extra” into your relationship with Father God? The pastors in Kings County would love the opportunity to encourage you to move from the ordinary to the extraordinary.