As a pastor and a father, I've seen firsthand how a small act of kindness can change everything, even in a world filled with noise and distractions. When we put on a friendly manner, even when we're not feeling particularly friendly, it can lead to real change. Our values are constantly being challenged, but by choosing to act with kindness, generosity, and self-sacrifice, we can cultivate a more compassionate and loving community.
I've found that people often give lip service to relativism, but when confronted with the reality of objective moral values, they can be quickly convinced. This is because our actions reveal our true nature, and when we're put to the test, our character is revealed. As the Bible says, "Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor will also cry himself and not be heard" (Proverbs 21:13). By choosing to act with kindness and generosity, we not only bring joy to others, but we also open ourselves up to the blessings of wholeness, protection, love, peace, health, and fulfillment.
In my own life, I've learned that being kind and generous is not always easy, especially when faced with mean or difficult people. But as Christians, we're called to be a community that is marked by love, kindness, and patience. By choosing to act with these virtues, we can lay a lifetime foundation of giving to others and making a positive impact in the world. As Rick Warren said, "True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less." By choosing to think of others more, we can create a world that is filled with kindness, compassion, and love.