Kindness

Galatians 5:22-23

The World’s Greatest Needs

            A little more kindness and a little less greed;

            A little more giving and a little less need;

            A little more smile and a little less frown;

            A little less kicking a man when he’s down;

            A little more “we” and a little less “I”;

            A little more laugh and a little less cry;

            A little more flowers on the pathway of life;

            And fewer on graves at the end of the strife.

                                                – C. Austin Miles

            It would seem that because of the scripture’s great focus on love that kindness is often overlooked.  Of note, Paul reminds us that one of the characteristics of love is being kind (1 Corinthians 13:4)!  Also, kindness is one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit.  Paul exhorts the Ephesians to “Be kind to one another...” (Ephesians 4:32).

            A cobbled together definition for kindness:   being friendly and considerate of others; treating others with respect; doing deeds to promote the well-being of another person.

            Generally, acts of kindness aren’t seen as huge endeavors but as small deeds done in the course of life.  Examples: Holding the door for someone.  Respecting someone’s space.  Sending a card.  Giving a compliment.  Providing a ride.  A word of encouragement.  Not interrupting while someone else is talking.  Saying “thank you.”  A small gift at the right time.  Phone call to a shut-in.  We could go on.

            Jesus spoke of the cup of cold water.  Such things matter, and they matter a lot!  And here’s one of the best things about acts of kindness.  Anybody can do them!  Any time.  Anywhere.

                                                            ><>  Jeff