Be Kind

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Have you ever looked at all the bad news going on in the world and wished that somehow the world could be a better place? Well, it can, and it starts with you! As followers of Christ, we are all called to be the light of the world – to shine the light, grace, and compassion of Christ wherever we go. And the best way to do this is to practice kindness in our everyday lives.

When Jesus walked on Earth, He modelled how we should show kindness, compassion, and be forgiving to all whom we happen to cross paths with in this life. Never once did Jesus turn away the sick, or refuse to forgive a sinner – no, He did quite the opposite – Jesus touched the lepers to heal them (Matt 8:3), and He even ate side by side with sinners (Mark 2:15). When Jesus heard the news that John the Baptist had been beheaded, He withdrew to grieve, but the crowds followed Him. Despite still being deep in grief, Jesus didn’t send the people away but still took the time to heal the sick and meet with them (Matt 14:14). While in excruciating pain on the cross, Jesus pleaded with God, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:24). In His time of agony and distress, Jesus could have rained curses on the Roman soldiers who were torturing Him, yet His response was one of grace and love.

When we read these accounts of grace, we remember that this is the compassionate Savior worthy of all our worship and praise, for He withheld nothing from us. There are so many more instances where Jesus showed such deep compassion for those around Him, and just as how Jesus demonstrated such grace and kindness, we too are called to follow in His footsteps.  

So, who’s that person you can’t seem to forgive? Have you remembered to be kind with your words and compassionate in your actions? Let's take the lead from Jesus and choose to be His light in this world. As God’s children, we too have the same capacity for kindness and compassion, so let’s shine the light of Christ in the darkness and make this world a little brighter together.

Designed and devotion by Beth Low.