Sometimes you just know what you need to say and then circumstances around you back it up. That’s how I feel this morning.
Last night Dave and I were watching TV and saw a commercial we have seen 100’s of times before. You know, it’s the one where the young adults are walking out the door of a building and there’s a mother with a stroller coming out behind them. The door closes before she gets through and one young man looks around and then goes back to hold it open for her. See you know exactly which one I’m talking about.
Well Dave asked me last night, “why did that kid have to stop and think about holding the door for her? It’s a no brainer.” That used to be true but these days so many are caught up in their own lives they don’t take time to be helpful, considerate or kind. It’s not a no brainer. Writing a note of appreciation, saying thank you, being patient in the checkout line, giving someone the parking space, helping someone in need, supporting someone who is hurting – these should all be commonplace but they aren’t.
When I went to the Bible Gateway app this morning the verse of the day on their home page was this:
“Everything you say and everything you do should be done for Jesus your Lord. And in all you do, give thanks to God the Father through Jesus.” Colossians 3:17 ERV
Everything…everything we do should be done for Jesus! With this thought in mind it certainly helps us in our fast to avoid criticism and complaining. Now look at what Jesus said about kindness.
“Then the king will say to the godly people on his right, ‘Come, my Father has great blessings for you. The kingdom he promised is now yours. It has been prepared for you since the world was made. 35 It is yours because when I was hungry, you gave me food to eat. When I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I had no place to stay, you welcomed me into your home. 36 When I was without clothes, you gave me something to wear. When I was sick, you cared for me. When I was in prison, you came to visit me.’
37 “Then the godly people will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and give you food? When did we see you thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you with no place to stay and welcome you into our home? When did we see you without clothes and give you something to wear? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and care for you?’
40 “Then the king will answer, ‘The truth is, anything you did for any of my people here, you also did for me.” Matthew 25:34-40 ERV
It’s important that we realize our lives have purpose and meaning. It may not be that we become famous and the world knows our name and our accomplishments. It is important, however, that they know our kindness and compassion. Jesus said that the world will know we are his disciples because of our love. If you need motivation for loving others take a look at this last verse.
“Be kind and loving to each other. Forgive each other the same as God forgave you through Christ.” Ephesians 4:32 ERV
Kindness is a gift that you can give freely to everyone you meet but it isn’t cheap.