Kindness

Carol O'Neil - Treasurer

Ephesians 4:32 "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

Do you remember that waitress who was abrupt and who didn’t smile when taking your order?  Or maybe it was a friend who was in a bad mood and a bit argumentative.  How did you react? Sometimes our first reaction is to bristle and feel anger or rejection. 

Try to consider that everyone has a “story.” If they have been grossly mistreated on a continual basis, that story may affect their entire life. Or, on a smaller scale, maybe that waitress just lost her pet, or is going through a divorce or has a very sick relative.  Maybe her car broke down on her way to work or she has a piercing headache.

Often a kind word or a smile can brighten someone’s day. Try smiling and asking, “How is your day going?” If you get “the story”, listen patiently and ask how you can help, or ask if you can say a short prayer with her. At the very least¸ offer understanding and a kind word.

In Luke 16:31 Jesus says, “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”  This command would certainly include being kind. 

Kindness is like a ripple on a lake. One stone tossed can send ripples clear across the lake. One kindness can be passed on to another and another and another. Let your kindness be the one that changes lives.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, we praise you for your goodness and kindness which are perfect. You were always kind and loving, even to those who rejected and persecuted you. Help us to follow your example that we may be a blessing to all those around us even when they are not kind to us. Help us to be sensitive to the needs of others and teach us to see the best in people and to respond with love and kindness, rather than anger and resentment. May we always be willing to offer a smile, lend a hand, give of our time and share with those who are less fortunate.   Amen