Isn’t it crazy how much a simple smile can light up a face? A simple gesture of kindness can change an entire day. An effort to go an extra step can alter someone’s mood and bring hope. The right word spoken at the right time can renew joy. A listening ear can remind others that they are valued. A meal shared can break through loneliness. A phone call can extend friendship. It is amazing how the most simple efforts can be so powerful.
We try to make kindness difficult sometimes. We imagine we have to make big gestures to make big impacts. We focus on the large efforts and sweeping productions to make change. But if we really want to make a difference, the seemingly small acts can be the key. If we all could focus on doing one small act of kindness each day, it would do more than we could ever imagine. We may not see the results, but that never is the reason. We may not know how we touched someone else’s life, but that is perfectly okay. The act of kindness is enough in itself. Simply to find a way to show kindness is the key. And as described, it doesn’t need to be elaborate. The small things matter.
One of the most powerful characteristics of Jesus for me is that he saw people. He truly took the time to see the beggar on the street that everyone else stepped over. He saw those with skin diseases that had been excluded from society. He saw the women of questionable character for the beauty that they were. He saw the rich, not as rich and powerful, but as needy and desperate. He wasn’t swept away by the glitz and glamor. He was moved by the heart of a person. He truly saw people. He changed lives through the simple act of seeing people. It really is the simple things that make such a difference.
What simple acts of kindness can we do today? Could it be a smile, going the extra step, offering a listening ear? Whatever it is, take some time today to simply be kind. It just might change someone’s day…and it might be yours.
Focus Scripture:
Galatians 5:22-23
22 By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things.
Photos included in Devotions are captured by David Cain – The Cain Gallery. Photos are available for sale by contacting The Cain Gallery
SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 