Our peripheral vision is that wonderful God-given ability to notice our surroundings without actually moving our eyes. Because of it, we often save ourselves from serious accidents or harm.
In the spiritual realm, peripheral vision is also important. Nobody will argue with the benefits of being aware of what is happening around us, for with this knowledge we are often able to serve the Lord more wisely. The problem comes when we allow ourselves to be too distracted by things off to the side and lose focus of our primary responsibility.
On one occasion, after Peter had received some personally painful words from the Lord, he looked over and saw John. He immediately inquired as to if his friend would also have a similar future. Jesus’ response was short and blunt. He made it clear to Peter that he was not to let himself be distracted by his friend’s lot.
In the same way, when we see our fellow servants, may our only desire be to exhort and encourage them, and never to compare ourselves with them or our situation with theirs. Let’s not swerve from focusing on our main mission nor lose the good spirit that is so essential in God’s service.
(John 21:21)

It is natural to want to be seen when we serve the Lord. This is why Jesus dedicated a good chunk of the Sermon on the Mount to this desire we have for people to know how much and in what ways we are serving God.
With three specific examples, He teaches that the only thing of real importance is that the heavenly Father sees our love and our sacrifice.
Whether we serve at church, at home, or at work, every bit of what we do should first be for the Lord. He is the only One who will give us a reward that has eternal significance. We should remind ourselves often, that no matter how secret our service may be, the eternal eyes watch what we do and can see why we do it.
(Matt. 6 and Col. 3)

Sometimes it is good to surprise. Whether in a church ministry or a personal outreach, doing something out of the ordinary can be an effective way of teaching important lessons to those you love and serve.
One day Jesus left his disciples speechless by moving completely outside their comfort zone. It wasn’t anything fancy or expensive, and it didn't take much preparation. He simply saw an everyday task that had not been done and decided to take care of it himself. Finding a nearby basin and towel, he began to wash his disciples’ feet.
Two thousand years later we are still in awe over that little token of love.
We too should apply our imagination in serving others, not to call attention to ourselves, but to fix in their minds a truth worth learning.
(Juan 13)

There is a lot of power in a genuine, friendly smile. Through it, you can sometimes transmit just the comfort and tenderness that another person needs. We never know what others are going through, or how their week has been, or if they slept well the past night. So, what a blessing to know that in this way we can be instruments in the hands of the Holy Spirit.
Before you arrive at church tomorrow, prepare your mind. Control your thoughts and decide that you are going to have an attitude of joy in the Lord, which will automatically be reflected on your face. If others see the glow of your Christian joy, the happiness of abundant life, and the peace of a redeemed soul, you will undoubtedly be a blessing to others.