Serving With Kindness | Part Four
We are spending some time considering kindness and the way that it informs serving one another.
It is often true that we tend to relate to people in ways that reflect our understanding of God’s relationship with us. If we believe God is mean, we tend to relate in mean ways. If we believe God simply overlooks sin, we may be indulgent with others.
If we think kindness is important, is it because that is the nature of God?
Jeremiah says “Yes”.
The prophet is bemoaning the lack of faith and integrity among the people. He points out that they are unfaithful, adulterous, deceivers, liars and cheats. God agrees with him and assures Jeremiah that He will deal with the people, and reminds him what is important.
“… let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know Me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the Lord.[1]
What wonderful balanced truth this is; justice, righteousness and kindness are the nature of God.
This is not a kindness that is fleeting, nor unrealistic, nor superficial – this is deep kindness that coexists with justice and righteousness.
Kindness is not soft, weak, or indecisive; it is powerful, strong and intentional.
Kindness is an attribute that enables trust, connection and genuine growth to take place.
Kindness is a commitment to aid growth, development and positive change.
Kindness is a consistent expression of the heart and nature of God.
As we engage young people in “serving with kindness” we need to understand and reflect this deep kindness of God in our relationships and the ways in which we serve one another.
Blessings
Brian
[1] Jeremiah 9:23-24