We have control over very little that happens in this world. Daniel and his companions had lost their freedom and were prisoners in a hostile land. They were at the mercy of their captors. And yet they had all the freedom in the world, for they still had the freedom to choose their response to their situation. Daniel and the others did not forget who they were, nor did they forget their God. Their faith and their fidelity enabled God to bless and empower them wherever they were, and their example even impressed their captors. In a similar fashion, we can find ourselves in situations where we feel helpless and imprisoned. It is very important that we always remember who we are and what God expects of us. God will definitely be with us.

Who gives more, a millionaire who makes a donation from his surplus money, or a simple worker who has to sacrifice in order to give even a little? And it is not limited to money. The worth of what we give is not measured in amounts, but in the love and sacrifice involved. What we do for others and for God does not depend on titles, recognition, position, or anything else. Small things done with love are most pleasing in God's eyes, and in reality are not small at all. It is of such things that the Kingdom of God is built. Let us be very attentive to the 'little' things we do each day.