"...Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."
~ Ephesians 4:32
Recently, I've sadly come to realize how very divided we are in our churches when it comes to differing points of view. The chasm of discourse is deep and wide and as sharply split as our country. Yet, we who are in Christ have been knitted together in God’s great love. What would it look like if we could set aside our differences like gracious and loving brothers and sisters do, growing together in a family?
As Ephesians four says, we must do so by being kind. When we demonstrate kindness, we encourage one another. And don’t we, each of us, appreciate an uplifting comment from time to time? Don’t we sometimes need it? Kindness increases empathy and compassion, and often improves one’s mood. I’ve read that it can even reduce blood pressure! Isn’t that amazing?
My Amish friends are excellent examples of kindness. Amish folk are hospitable and generous; they freely give of their time and resources—and money—to assist other church members in times of need. (Because of biannual almsgiving, they don’t even need health insurance. What a beautiful thing!) But they show that same kindness to outsiders who do not share their old ways or traditions. Last year, a group of sixty-two Amish constructed twelve tiny homes in North Carolina to help families who lost their houses in Hurricane Helene. And all out of the kindness of their hearts. In fact, Amish folk are often the very first to offer help after a tornado or a flood in states far from their own homes and farms.
Now, I’m not suggesting we all become Amish, but through these actions and others, they seek to live lives that reflect the Fruit of the Spirit and that live up to these words in Ephesians. Kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness can certainly go a long way in quelling strife between two opposing sides. I pray we might all practice this essential instruction from this verse. What if we tried doing so for one week, then one month, and so on? What if we made it a habit?
Thinking of others and their feelings shows maturity in Christ. Abiding together in unity is a blessing for any church community or country, whether we see eye to eye or not. It is precious in God’s sight.
In Christ,
—Beverly Lewis
1) Time is flying by and very soon The Christmas House will release on September 2nd. If you haven't preordered and would like to receive 40% off the retail price, as well as free shipping in the US, you have until September 1 to cash in on this amazing savings, friends!
Baker Book House (40% off and free US shipping through September 1)
There are also other retailer outlets, if you wish. Here are a few of them:
2)I hope you're enjoying summertime outings and some delicious food, while making new memories with family and friends. And spreading kindness, too! Thanks very much for your thoughtful and enthusiastic remarks about my writing, as well--always a lovely encouragement!
