Thursday, July 26, 2018

A LITTLE KINDNESS

In Ephesians 5:32, we read: “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”

“I’ve decided to be kind. Our Sunday School teacher told us to be kind always.”

“He’s right. Be sure you’re doing it for the right reason.”

First, Timmy saw a lady loaded with groceries. “Let me help you.” He  stowed them in her car. She tipped him. Grandfather smiled when told, continued to read his paper.

An older gentleman struggled to cross the street. “May I help you?” The gentleman insisted he take money for his trouble.  He opened the door for a lady, held it for her to enter. She, too, tipped him.

“I’ve done enough kind things for today.” Timmy kicked a rock from one side of the sidewalk to the other. Thought this would be exciting.

The honking of a horn grabbed his attention. A  puppy cowered in the middle of the street. Without thinking of a reward, Timmy watched the traffic, made his way into the street. He picked up the puppy, carried him to the sidewalk.

“You okay, fellow?” The dog licked his hand, held up his paw.

“Who do you have there?” Grandfather said. Timmy brought the puppy up on the porch.

“He was in the middle of the street and scared. Can we find his owner?”

“Good thinking, son.” He checked the dog’s collar. “Here’s his number.”

The owner arrived, causing the little tail to thump. “He knows you.”

“And I know you. You helped me cross the street this morning. I didn’t know Buddy was missing until I got home. He got out, followed me.” He offered Timmy a five dollar bill.

“Thank you, but I can’t take it. Did what anyone would do.”

Later, when Grandfather asked why he didn’t accept the money, Timmy shrugged. “Didn’t feel right.”

“You did kind deeds earlier, but when you saw the pup? You acted from your heart, not thinking  about yourself. Our Lord wants us to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. I’m proud of you, son.”

Kingdom Thinking.  The Lord Jesus is kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving. He loves me with aneverlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?