Kindness from a stranger is a delightful surprise. While shopping with a friend visiting from Hungary, we experienced kindness first hand. After searching to no avail for a particular item, a young clerk offered his assistance. After several telephone calls, he located the item and arranged for a clerk in a competing store to assist us. Amazing!

The original clerk demanded no attention, accolades or repayment of the favor. I appreciated his effort since I know this is, at times, not characteristic of me. My "random acts of kindness" are often accompanied by a desire for recognition, honor or repayment. I would call this "kindness with a self-serving motive."

However, as a follower of Jesus, we are called not to an occasional act of kindness but rather a life of kindness accompanied by a profound humility. Impossible to do on our own, God promises to provide the resources we need through His Spirit. What an unbelievable Christian community we would be if everyone displayed kindness cloaked in humility.

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Colossians 3:12 NIV)

 

Sharing the journey with you,

Bob Snyder