Passage of the Day:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[i] and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” Matthew 5:43-48.
Reflection:
The first time an adult Christian urged me to kill people with kindness, I had no idea what they were talking about. Perhaps, this individual was referring to the words of King Solomon in today’s call to action. Yet, Jesus lays out behavioral standards for Christians in the Sermon on the Mount. When people of faith begin to love and pray for their enemies, unexpected acts of kindness in the form of fruits of the Spirit is unexpected and can be overwhelming. This is where the expression killing others with kindness is derived.
Prayerful Action:
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you, Proverbs 25:21-22.
Preparing Your Fields to Bear Spiritual Fruit:
There will always be individuals who get under your skin, rubbing you the wrong way. When two polar opposite personalities clash, this will create friction. Since some people don’t know when to stop, the more frustrated you become, the more this individual will continue to push the envelope. However, when you go on to the offensive spiritually by killing others with kindness, these arch enemies won’t know how to respond to the love of Christ. Take the high road by striving to repay evil with kindness.
Song of the Day:
Being kind is much easier said than done. Therefore, may the lyrics of today’s song inspire you to live out a spirit of kindness.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 