Chatting with Jesus
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
Lord, how many years had slipped by since I saw her? Our beloved great Aunt Oleta, or affectionately known as Aunt “Doodle,” was celebrating her 103rd birthday. Amazingly, her mind remained sharp and alert. Despite my aging, she recognized me right away. I noticed immediately she still had that sparkle in her eyes, that indication her inner self was alive and well, not to mention her feistiness remained active. Over the years she more than had her share of heartaches and pains in this broken world, yet her life was well lived. Oh, she still loves western dancing. Her 100th birthday party found her on the dance floor scooting a boot.
When I asked Doodle what advice she would give young people about life, she thought a few moments before answering. She didn’t offer a great philosophy or the usual common platitudes about life. She looked me in the eye and simply said: “Be kind.” That was her secret to a long life well lived? Be kind to one another? That profound advice could not be truer.
Scripture tells us kindness is one of the spiritual gifts God gives to those who follow and revere Him. Space does not allow me to list all the Scriptures about kindness, but one in particular stands out. Proverbs tells us that as fallen human beings, we have two streaks: kindness and cruelty. Choose kindness.
“Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you,”—Proverbs 11:17 (NLT)
Lord, we’re thankful Aunt Doodle chose kindness. She has blessed untold numbers of people over her 103 years. May we choose likewise and show those in our world Your Love, Grace, and Kindness.
Showing kindness because You are kind, Lord Jesus, amen.
THANKFUL 
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