Choose Kind
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us…
Ephesians 4:32-5:1 & 2a
Have you noticed the ads on social media for t-shirts expressing thoughts about kindness? The shirts may have pictures or other words on them, but they all end up saying, “Choose Kind”.
Am I actually brave enough to even wear one of those shirts?
Jesus could. Jesus did indeed choose kindness. In Luke 3:1-4, He healed a man on the Sabbath. This act infuriated the Pharisees to the point they plotted to have Jesus killed. Jesus chose kindness even though he knew it would eventually lead to his death.
What better way to follow Jesus’ example and show the world God’s love than to simply be kind in all situations? Although I do not have Pharisees watching over my shoulders, people still watch Christians to see if they “practice what they preach” even today.
I have my Christian fish symbol on my car. How do I act when someone is driving slower than I think they should in front of me? How do I respond if someone cuts me off?
Do I choose patience when waiting in line at a store and it takes forever to get checked out? Do I smile and simply wait my turn?
How do I respond to a friend or family member when they seem to get on my nerves? Is that really their problem or mine?
Yes, wearing a t-shirt about kindness is cool, but putting it into practice is a whole other thing.
Jesus, thank you for modelling kindness in the Bible. Thank you for teaching me about true compassion. Help me to “Choose Kind” in every situation – no t-shirt needed.
Susan P.
