Far from the statement from Kindness Day (“Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race, religion, politics, gender and location.”) it is only true love and forgiveness that can bridge the hatred and selfishness that is intrinsic to all of us. It has been in all humanity, and has been since the beginning.
Kindness is an admirable goal, but often gets distorted by the insidious self: this is why so many ‘acts of kindness’ are video’d, often adding shame of the receiver but building up the givers ego. It makes us ‘feel’ nice, but is *not *kindness to the person in need.
What about a hug? An introverts nightmare, the sentiment may seem honourable, but what lasting good does it do someone who is suffering grief, depression, rejection or worse? True kindness goes much further: genuinely accepting and loving someone, sharing your lunch or time with someone, being genuinely happy to see someone or hear their opinion or what is important to them, it could be as simple as taking the smaller piece of cake or pizza with the least toppings or simply sitting & listening saying nothing.
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.
Romans 12:9-10 (NLT)
This ‘Kindness Day’, remember it is Jesus who came and represented to the world how to be truly kind. He came, teaching *all* people had value at a time when those not a citizen of the ruling class would be treated unfairly, taxed, abused or killed. A time when women had very little rights and it was normal for nations and factions to kill each other in the worst ways imaginable. They have a different religion? Kill them for sport!
BUT Jesus lived completely differently: selfless, never gave in to temptation, never sinned, never did anything of what we as humans naturally desire. This incredible act of obedience qualified Him to save humanity. For those He came to save, He issued incredible commands for us to follow:
Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT)A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people.
2 Timothy 2:24 (NLT)A widow who is put on the list for support must be a woman who is at least sixty years old and was faithful to her husband. She must be well respected by everyone because of the good she has done. Has she brought up her children well? Has she been kind to strangers and served other believers humbly? Has she helped those who are in trouble? Has she always been ready to do good?
1 Timothy 5:9-10 (NLT)
Let us follow Jesus’ example not just today but EVERY DAY
Lord, help us be genuinely kind to everyone. In times where we struggle, draw us to Yourself so that we can receive Your love and reflect it to those who need it most. ThankYou for Your selfless gift of forgiveness & love.