The Simple Act of Kindness
Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, it’s not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts: but the one who does the will of God lives forever” 1 John 2:15 – 17.
This year I was somewhat sensitive as I prepared myself for Easter with church and family. As I was sitting at my desk, I came across a note I had written weeks ago. “The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil but by those who do nothing about it and just watch it happen.” It gave me chills! I was comparing how we value each other in the world today and back when Jesus walked upon the earth.
My parents tried to teach me to kill ugly behavior with kindness. Really? My human instinct has always been to hurt back (but it’s not very satisfying).
Retaliation wounds our hearts. The Holy Spirit taps me saying, “Patty - do you really feel better about this?” We are always pointing out bad behaviors of others but what about our own sinful ways? As we continue to repeat sinful behaviors like envy, lust, jealousy, and unhealthy cravings, I know I can’t stop the world’s sin, but I have the desire to end my sin. My pastor recently spoke these words: “Jesus loved us!” and it jumped out at me as if the words were only for me. In John 13: 34-35 (NIV), Jesus was talking to his disciples during His last supper, and said, A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Simple yet powerful statements are some of the toughest to do. Loving another is so beautiful, and we receive multiple blessings when we do. But be honest; when we’re hurt, it is hard not to react with like behavior. We need to stop, walk away, and pray for the offender and for our own actions.
We’re far from being perfect and we stumble daily, but we must continue to get up and try again. We need a daily reminder of how much Jesus loves us whether a song, Bible verse or a friendly phone call.
Through forgiveness and acts of kindness, we can make a huge difference.
Father, as John 3:16 states, You loved the world so much that You gave Your only Son to die for us on that cross. If we believe in You, we shall not perish but have everlasting life. Thank You for Your gift of eternal love. AMEN.