Be Kind

I have a friend who is one of the most thoughtful people I have ever met. When we last got together for a visit, she learned that I like butterflies. Today, I received an absolutely beautiful butterfly pin from her and the accompanying note said it was in memory of my parents. The thoughtfulness behind such a sweet gesture of kindness caused me to tear up just a little as I showed the gift to my husband.

As I thought about the lovely gift given to me, I thought how like Jesus my friend is. She regularly gives beautiful gifts and most often they are “just because.” She brightens my day when I least expect it. Sometimes I don’t even know I need it, until her kindness reminds me of the deep longing in my heart to be loved and appreciated. Jesus is like that. His gifts have always been, and always will be, because he cares. He brightens our day when we least expect it and sometimes we don’t even know we needed that special touch to the deepest longing of our heart, and then Jesus passes by and we realize how much better life is in his presence.

Jesus’ greatest gift of course is his gift of salvation. But we are wise not to miss the little gifts he gives us every day. Like butterflies, and beautiful friends.

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12

Prayer: Father, thank you for the Gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, who brought us salvation. Help us to be kind to others in the same way we want, and expect, others to be kind to us. Help us to reflect Jesus in our kindness. For Your glory. Amen.