We need to be communities who understand and practice kindness. We need to be attuned to see kindness in our world and value it. Yet we also need to see that kindness is not superficial, it is not just a technique where we are trained to parrot, “Have a good day”.
It is not always about being nice; fabricating pleasantness. Genuine kindness has its origin in God and is enabled by the Spirit.[1]
Kindness is the responsibility of the one being kind; it does not depend upon the worthiness of the one who receives kindness. Paul is clear that it is God’s kindness towards sinners that leads them to repentance.[2] Kindness reflects the heart of God. We are called to be kind to one another, tender-hearted and forgiving . . . just as God in Christ forgave us[3]
Kindness is not just exhibited by Christians – God enables kindness to be shown through whoever He chooses. I am constantly amazed at how God highlights a non-believer in the Good Samaritan story to demonstrate His kindness.
The Bible destroys our saccharin-sweet idea that kindness is always warm and pleasant. Sometimes kindness is confrontational – maybe a challenge from a friend.[4] Kindness may involve pain, such as a surgeon removing a cancerous tumour. Kindness always seeks to help, heal and bring hope. It involves tenderness and respect; love and grace.
Many of the issues we encounter can be better understood and dealt with when we apply kindness. Let us encourage our community members to think, speak and act with kindness; and let us help people to see kindness in others.
BACK TO CARE CONVERSATIONS
[1] E.g. Galatians 5:22
[2] Romans 2:4
[3] Ephesians 4:32
[4] Psalm 141:5