Be Kind Day
Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18, (ESV)
When I first heard that February 17th was Random Acts of Kindness Day, my thoughts were extremely positive. “Wow, what a great idea!” But then something inside of me became rather irritated. Why in the world do we need a day set aside to do nice things for others?
Think about being kind. How hard is it to hold the door for someone? Let them get ahead of you with two items as you stand there with your cart full of stuff? Take the last piece of your favorite cake? Get the parking spot near the door?
So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10, ESV). While every church has some drama, we know that there is no such thing as the perfect church. Can’t we lay it aside and hand out some compliments and kudos? Sometimes we go after members because we have this concept that they should know better. We don’t forgive them or let them off the hook. “I just don’t feel like being nice to them. They don’t deserve it!” Have you ever said that silently to yourself? I’ll be honest and say yes. I’ve thought that and have discovered that the feeling is not comfortable. A little kindness goes a long way.
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29, ESV).
A random act of kindness does not have to break the bank. When we must think about being kind, is it random? Why isn’t kindness simply part of our Christian composition? God pours blessings on us every day. Aren’t these acts of kindness?
Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor (Proverbs 21:21 (ESV). Pursuing something usually takes practice. Do we have to practice being kind or is it a natural for us?
So, what did you do for someone else on the 17th—without being asked or nudged? Maybe you didn’t know it was a special day. You can offer someone a random act of kindness today…and tomorrow and the day after that.
Loving and Kind Lord, thank You for all Your blessings. Help each of us to be more like You and never grow tired of loving and forgiving others. AMEN.