In the fabric of Christian life, an integral thread that weaves through its doctrine and practice
is kindness. This divine quality is at the heart of Christianity, offering a compass for our interactions with others and shaping our relationship with God Himself.
One of the fundamental teachings of Jesus Christ is the command to "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). This mandate is not just about affectionate feelings but primarily about taking action. "The body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." (James 2:26). Loving our neighbor involves showing compassion, offering help, and demonstrating kindness even when it might not be reciprocated or convenient. It’s about respecting others’ dignity, acknowledging their humanity, and responding to their needs with empathy and action. The ultimate act of kindness is to introduce a soul to Christ.
Jesus Christ himself embodied kindness throughout His life. He healed the sick, comforted the bereaved, and welcomed the marginalized. His kindness was radical, extending to people across all walks of life - from the respected Pharisees to the despised tax collectors and sinners. Jesus’ kindness bore no discrimination; it was a testament to the boundless love of God.
In the Epistle to the Ephesians, Apostle Paul instructs Christians to "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32). Here, Paul illustrates kindness as an act of forgiveness, a tangible reflection of God's mercy towards humanity. Just as God extends His kindness to us through the forgiveness of sins, we, too, are called to echo this divine kindness in our relationships.
The fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22, lists kindness among the divine qualities that grow in us as we deepen our relationship with God. As we cultivate kindness, we become more like Christ, more in sync with His teachings, and more reflective of His love for the world.
Kindness in Christianity also embodies the principle of the Golden Rule: “Do to others what you want them to do to you” (Matthew 7:12). This rule compels us to be kind to others not just in response to their kindness but as a proactive, intentional act, anticipating the needs and feelings of others.
In essence, kindness is not merely an optional virtue in Christianity. It is an essential commandment, a divine characteristic, and a reflection of God's own heart. Kindness paints a picture of what it means to be a follower of Christ – compassionate, caring, and considerate. As we navigate through the complexities of life, let kindness guide our steps, color our interactions, and enrich our faith journey.
In a world where we can be anything, be kind!