Every Kindness Makes a Difference
By Paula Williamson, guest writer
On my way to the car this week, my friend and I saw a couple, and something in their faces stirred my compassion. I asked if they were okay. They had just gotten out of detox and were homeless. They had walked with their belongings in a garbage bag to the nearest church, only to arrive after it had closed. We asked if we could pray for them, and they burst into tears. We shared a small meal at McDonald's, and they told their heartbreaking story. Seldom do we pause long enough to give the gift of time just to listen to a hurting soul. It makes a difference.
It Is Written
EPHESIANS 4:1 -2 So I, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to you to live a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called [that is, to live a life that exhibits godly character, moral courage, personal integrity, and mature behavior—a life that expresses gratitude to God for your salvation], 2 with all humility [forsaking self -righteousness], and gentleness [maintaining self -control], with patience, bearing with one another in [unselfish] love.
A Challenge
The next day, my husband and I invited the man who repaired our car to share a meal. He was deeply touched by the invitation to enter our home, share a meal, and listen to his story. We don’t need a degree or the right words to offer an act of kindness. We have our time and two ears. We have been called to a life that exhibits godly character, moral courage, personal integrity, and mature behavior–expressing gratitude for our salvation. Living humbly, gently, with patience and unselfish love. That makes a big difference.
Prayer
Lord, help us make time in our lives to hear Your still, small voice and to obey those promptings. Help us never be too busy to offer kindness and compassion. Help us remember that You gave us one mouth and two ears so we can stop and listen to the stories of other people’s lives. Help us to see that taking our eyes off of ourselves makes life more interesting. Help us do what matters to You.
Takeaway
Kindness matters.
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