“How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows His blessing, even life forevermore.”
Psalm 133 NIV
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Whenever I read this verse, my first thought is towards my children. When they are getting along…playing nicely, speaking kindly to each other, etc., it is so wonderful to be around them. Mommy is happy. Times are good. But when the bickering starts, Mommy is not so happy. Our home is not such a blissful place to be around. Are they totally to blame? Doubtful. Have I done my best to be joyful, or speak with kind and encouraging words in the midst of it? Doubtful.
Tuesday, while I was driving down the same route to a friend’s home as I had on Monday, I came upon a road construction crew that has been working on this same road for the past couple weeks. This same verse popped into my head as I saw probably one of the happiest men alive. Both days, I passed this “STOP/SLOW sign holding” man a total of 6 times and every time I did, he greeted me with a nod, wave and a smile.
Now this wasn’t some dinky back road with a total of 5 cars driving down it daily, but instead a well-traveled road. I also was not the only recipient of his friendly gestures. He did the same thing to each and every car that passed. Not only that, but the temps around here have been in the 90’s for over a week and he certainly was not in the shade with a tank top and shorts on, sipping some ice-cold lemonade!
What joy he exuded! What a strive towards living in unity with his fellow man! What an inspiration.
I’m currently reading a book along with 3 great friends entitled: One Simple Act – Discovering the Power of Generosity by Debbie Macomber. In it is a quote from an English writer, Aldous Huxley, that has continued to burn in my brain. “People often ask me, what is the most effective technique for transforming their life. It is a little embarrassing that after years and years of research and experimentation, I have to say the best answer is —just be a little kinder.” (pg.68)
Just be a little kinder. How simple. How profound.
Of course, I am not negating the power of Jesus Christ to transform lives in the least. That being said, this summer my goal is to just be a little kinder. Kinder to my family. Kinder to my friends. Kinder to complete strangers. And if asked the reason for my kindness, to give all the glory to the Lord. I pray that this goal will continue and become a natural part of my being long past the Summer of 2010.
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Lord,
Thank you for never-ending kindness towards me. Your mercies are new every morning! I pray that You will shine through me towards those I come in contact with, that I may share Your love and kindness with them as well.
Amen.
– Beckie (look2thehills)
Sixty-six books in a year 