Here, a Jewish man was robbed and beaten, left to die. But, Lord, “who is my neighbor?” With this question, the Parable of the Good Samaritan was born. “Love your neighbor as yourself,” – the second greatest commandment. Be intentional in showing kindness be consistent. So, slow down, make the time, and look for the needs of others. How often today do we miss opportunities to show God’s love to others because we are too busy? We rush here and there, leaving the needs of others in a blur as we whiz past. For three years of ministry, he looked toward the needs of others, never turning them away. During his life on earth, Jesus was a perfect emblem of this fruit of the spirit. Kindness requires a seeking out, a looking for the needs of others. Kindness is not when we feel like it or a random act here or there when we happen to think of it. Either plan specific acts of kindness, or plan for the random be ready to do good on-the-spot. Oftentimes, kind acts are on-the-spot, in the moment, and unplanned. Now, I’m not saying that we should never do random acts of kindness. If kindness needs faithful practice every day, kindness also requires intentionality. Being kind should be our default mode, a habit of goodwill, a heart of continual service every day of the year. We must be faithful every day to bear the good fruit of kindness. A seed does not transform into a tree overnight, but with careful watering, tending, and patience, a seed will slowly grow day-by-day into a strong towering tree. As Christians we are to grow in the fruit of the spirit – love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and kindness – and growth takes time. It should not be reserved for one day out of the year. But kindness is not a season or a feeling. Quickly, the joy of the season turns into the grind of resolutions, and hearts slowly sink in longing anticipation of spring. The unfortunate reality is that the Christmas spirit of December is quickly followed by the dreary debt of January. Kindness abounds and a spirit of joviality and love permeates the crisp winter air. The Christmas season is a time of joy, happiness, and goodwill. But is this really what kindness is all about? Should kindness be reserved for one day a year? Is kindness just random acts? Who deserves our kindness? The Bible has much to say about kindness, and offers a perfect role model for us to follow – Jesus. Annually, on November 13 th, the world joins hands for World Kindness Day, a day highlighting random good deeds and positivity. They warm our hearts, bring smiles to our faces, and stick with us for years to come. A smile on your way to class, a “One Free Drink” chip to BFCAT, an arm of support for a girl with a disability, a free swipe for a commuter, extra tutoring hours offered without extra pay, a door held open for another – we all have experienced acts of kindness.
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