“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you…”
Matthew 7:12 NLT
“You’ve got to try a little kindness
yes show a little kindness
Yes shine your light for everyone to see
And if you’ll try a little kindness and you’ll overlook the blindness
Of the narrow minded people on the narrow minded streets” – Glen Campbell (1969)
What a song! Oldie but goodie! Kindness never goes out of style! A line in the song says “shine your light for everyone to see”. As believers, our mandate includes shining our light brightly. One of the key ways we shine the light is through acts of kindness.
Have you struggled to get on a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) after a long wait and then just as you comfortably sat down, a parent walked in with toddlers looking exhausted. All seats were taken. What sort of thought immediately comes to you? To give up your seat or not? As you ponder on that, let us consider Jesus, our perfect example.
At various times Jesus exhibited kindness. Recall the story of the widow whose only son died. The Bible recorded thus in Luke 7:13:
“When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.”” – Luke 7:13-14 NKJV
Wow! This was vintage Jesus, ever so compassionately kind. It shows that kindness is God’s nature. It should be yours as well.
Apostle Paul also highlighted kindness as an evidence of the Spirit in you (Galatians 5:22). He was simply saying that we should be able to look at your dispositions and actions and immediately tell that you have the spirit of God living and working in you (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12). We ought not to be like those who looked away in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25 – 37).
As you read this, let your heart be stirred towards kindness. Begin to imagine how you can show kindness to others. For instance, you can choose to overpay a hawker whom you discern needs financial help. You can pay for or buy things for others.
In your workplace or community, shine the light of kindness brightly. Let it show irrespective of your position. Let your words be laced with grace and your actions flow in the direction of compassion. Intentionally reach out to friends and family to ask after them. Your call may yet prove to be timely and soothing.
As people with feelings, there is an absolute certainty we desire that kindness be extended to us in various ways. Like our anchor text instructs, do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. In this instance, show kindness in the same way you expect to receive kindness from others.
Remember the earlier example of the parent with toddlers on the bus? By now, you know what to do. Today and always, clothe yourself with kindness.
Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 24:28-35, Hebrews 12:14-29, Proverbs 29:15-27, Isaiah 59-61.