The Power of Extravagant Kindness
In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, a single act of kindness can change someone’s life. This was exemplified in the final days of Jesus’ life, when he shared a meal with his dear friends Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. Though the weight of his impending crucifixion loomed, Jesus felt the love and warmth of his friends in that moment.
A Gesture of Unwavering Devotion
Mary, in particular, went above and beyond to show her love and appreciation for Jesus. She poured expensive aromatic oils on his feet, massaging them gently, and then wiped them with her hair. The fragrance of the oils filled the entire house, creating a sense of tranquility and peace. While Judas criticized her actions as wasteful, Jesus saw it as an extravagant demonstration of love – a friend surrendering her most treasured gift.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
As we reflect on Mary’s selfless act, we’re reminded of the countless opportunities we have to show kindness to those around us. There may be an elderly neighbor who has lost a loved one, craving human connection and companionship. Perhaps there are children in our community who lack a father figure, longing for guidance and support. We can be that beacon of hope and kindness, even if it’s just for an hour.
Shocking Others with Kindness
What about the people closest to us – our family members? We can surprise them with outlandish acts of kindness, doing our homework without complaint, serving them coffee before they wake up, or writing a heartfelt letter for no special reason. These small gestures can bring immense joy and strengthen our relationships.
A Daily Dose of Kindness
As we strive to emulate Jesus’ teachings, let us make it a goal to perform daily deeds that cannot be repaid. May we search for ways to show extravagant gestures of gracious love, pouring our lives out in love, just because. Let us be consumed by compassion for the desperate and downtrodden, setting our hearts on fire for those who do not know God’s love.
A Prayer for Kindness
Precious Savior, we pray that you guide us to search for ways to demonstrate your love to those around us. May we be people who show kindness without expectation of reward, pouring out our lives in love, just because. Amen. As the apostle Peter wrote, “Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart…” (I Peter 1:22).
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