Big Fathead?

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Two kids were talking one day. Marvin said, "That new kid in school is nothing but a big fathead!"

Matilda, in her refined way, softly said, "You shouldn't call people names like that. It’s rude. I never call people names."

Marvin shrugged and told her, "Well, I just got mad when he said you were stupid looking." At this, Matilda put her hands on her hips and demanded, "What else did that big fathead say?"

It’s easy to be kind to people who treat me well. The challenge is to practice kindness to those who are as friendly as a skunk backed into a corner. Sometimes I meet this challenge well and other times I fail miserably.

I hope that others will be patient with me, even on those days when I’m as lovable as a grizzly bear. In the same way, I try to be considerate of others who might be having the worst day of their lives.

With a kind word, you can do amazing things. A little kindness goes a long way. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt. Chances are that the old grouch who snaps at you from behind the counter at Walgreen's isn't the creepy monster of a man that you assume he is. Maybe he going through something at home that really has him down.

This world can be a cold place. Just like sunshine help flowers to grow, smiles and kind words can help humanity. The gift of a few kind words can warm three winter months. Don’t you love it when someone warms your soul with a random act of kindness? Why not do the same for those you encounter? They might be in need of the warm sunshine of a kind word.

Dear Lord, help us look for ways to encourage someone today. When we see a person down help us be the one to lift them up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.