In our world full of differences—race and ethnicity, political parties, various views on sexuality and identity, heated debates about climate change (pun intended), differing theology and denominationalism, pop culture, etc.—it can be so easy to bracket ourselves into pockets of people with whom we agree, and staunchly separate ourselves from those with whom we disagree.

As a kid, I remember watching Mr. Rogers talk about how important kindness is, and how, though we may be different, we should all still be kind to one another. (I’m glad a movie about him will be here soon!)

Jesus took this much further, saying this:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect.”

Matthew 5:43-48 ESV (italics added)

Jesus befriended sinners, sat with the lowly, wept with the grieving, and bound-up the broken hearted.

Jesus was kind.

Here’s a reminder, friends, to be kind to any and all who you come in contact with tomorrow—not just those with whom you agree.

P. S. Isn’t this flower beautiful? I love flowers! I had to stop and snap a photo of these beauties back in 2017 while in Tennessee.

P. P. S. Life hack for happiness: always stop and smell the roses! ??

References: 

Holy Bible: English Standard Version, Study Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books, 2011.