The late Glenn Campbell had many great hits, including “Try a Little Kindness.” The words of the refrain go like this:
“You got to try a little kindness;
Yes, show a little kindness.
Just shine your light for everyone to see;
And if you try a little kindness;
Then you’ll overlook the blindness;
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets.”
I just finished reading an account of kindness that demonstrates the powerful impact of a simple act. A young man took his seat on the plane and was obviously nervous. He fidgeted in his seat, breathed deeply and tried to calm himself, but nothing helped. An elderly lady across the aisle put her hand on his arm and engaged him in conversation, assuring him that everything was going to be okay. When they landed three hours later, the young man said, “Thank you for helping me.”
Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16) Trying a little kindness doesn’t cost anything, but it is often priceless to the one receiving it. My heart is touched and warmed by an act of kindness shown to me. It doesn’t have to be a big deal, but when kindness is extended, the light of God’s love is clearly visible.
The importance of kindness takes the form of a command in Paul’s letter to the Ephesian church. “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Eph. 4:32) The motivation for kindness is found in God’s demonstration of kindness to us. If God has so graciously treated us, should we not be willing to extend love, grace and kindness to others?
The kindness shown by the elderly lady on the plane may have gone unnoticed to others, but it was certainly noted by the fearful young man. Rest assured, even the smallest act of kindness will be appreciated by the one who receives it, and it will bring glory to your Father in heaven.
— Terry Morrison