“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
Hard to believe that it is only two weeks from Thanksgiving Day. With Thanksgiving nearing, I find myself thinking more and more about kindness and gratitude. The two are closely related–mutually creative. Kindness begets gratitude, gratitude begets kindness–or so it should be.
Walking in the way of Jesus and his love sets us on a path of kindness to all. That is the example we have in Jesus, for Jesus is the fullest expression of God’s kindness. The Letter to Titus expresses this point: “[The kindness of God] and His love for humankind appeared in Jesus. He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy”–His kindness.” Titus 3:4 (italics are mine)
In gratitude for this great gift of kindness, let us respond in kindness. As you prepare for Thanksgiving, what kindness can you share? What kindness can you offer to others not as a reward for someone’s “righteousness” towards you, but as an expression of gratitude for the loving kindness of God?
Kindness begets gratitude, gratitude begets kindness.
