Truly Kind

Scripture Ephesians 4:32a ESV; Luke 22:31-34 NIV

Fighting back against the heat of summer isn’t always easily done and sometimes we must decide to be intentional in our relationships. Ephesians 4:32a tells us to “be kind to one another”.

While I have known a few people who have the gift of kindness from God I have found that being truly kind isn’t at all what modern folks think it means. Instead people often think those who are kind can be used as a doormat.

True kindness is about compassion and empathy. It’s also about truth.

Think of it this way…Jesus was truthful, always.

Jesus was truthful about sin. When Jesus met someone He could see their heart their true character which means He saw who they really were inside. Jesus knew His disciples and what they struggled with daily.

Jesus knew when the religious leaders were lying and being hypocritical.

Jesus knew truth telling is not easy but it’s essential.

Jesus knew when His disciples had different ideas about how Jesus should do in certain situations.

For example, Jesus knew Judas didn’t agree with Him. Some scholars believe when Judas betrayed Jesus he was trying to get Jesus to fight back. Judas did not understand Jesus’ overall mission and purpose.

Judas expected an earthly takeover and did not understand that Jesus came to spiritually set men free. Jesus was showing us the was to eternal life.

Ultimately, Judas did not know relationships and real kindness embody real truth.

I once knew a man years ago who had the gift of kindness. Every time I spoke with the man, he told me truth about myself. I was surprised and a little “put off” by his frank words. It took time (and maturity) for me to understand. God was showing the man things about me I had not yet seen.

I’m not certain but I think it’s possible that the man saw the “break” in my life that would change everything I had known for thirty years. I remember the first time we met and spoke he looked at me for a long time and he had tears in his eyes.

Jesus knew the truth about Judas and all of people He met. He knew who they would become (even Peter). We remember Jesus told Peter, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.” (Luke 22:31-34)

Yet Jesus knew Peter. He knew Peter would become a leading figure in the new church that would emerge after Jesus returned to heaven.

Spiritual Practice: Ask

If you have the courage, ask what God has for you.

Then ask God to prepare you for what is to come.

Deborah

acrazyjourney.com