How can you spread a little kindness each and every day for Christ? When we do any little act of kindness, we should do it freely, not counting the cost or looking for repayment–and, keeping in mind that our giving is unto the Lord. Jesus gave himself so freely for each one of us–shouldn’t we, with His power, be able to do the same?
To help us spread a little kindness, we need to forget about ourselves and our trials, and put other people as a priority. We also need to slow down a little in order to be aware of other people and their needs. Think of how you can show some kindness toward the people that God puts in your path each day–be it family, friends, coworkers, or even complete strangers.
Your kindness might be:
- Asking about a relative
- Calling a neighbor who is home-bound
- Giving a young mother a break from her children
- Leaving a “surprise” note to brighten someone’s day
- Defending someone you see being wronged
- Giving some extra money to someone in need
- Speaking a sincere “have a nice day” to the stressed cashier
Every person we meet is an opportunity to spread Jesus’ love through our kindness. We just never know the circumstances or situation that someone is facing or experiencing. By spreading a little kindness, we may ease their problems without ever knowing it while on this earth.
Photo courtesy of Barbara Mazz under Creative Commons License (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
We may not always feel like showing some kindness to someone and it might not always be easy, but it certainly is a blessing knowing that it is exactly what the Lord would do and expects from each of us.
Jesus’ life gave us examples of spreading kindness to others. It did not matter to Jesus whether the people were lowly or lofty. Jesus showed kindness in healing the ten, lowly, outcasts of leprosy and with acknowledging the rich Zacchaeus, who was in a tree trying to catch a glimpse of Jesus passing by.
In our reaching out to one another in Jesus’ name, we will be following in His footsteps, and our reward in heaven will be great!
He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the needy. –Proverbs 14:21
Photo courtesy of MTSO fan under Creative Commons License (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)