Kindnessনমুনা

The art of gracious gentleness

When it comes to definitions, kindness is like love: it’s hard to define. We know it when we see it and experience it. Perhaps it’s a sort of gracious gentleness shown to those in need. It’s not insipid "niceness," nor does it make a kind person a sort of spineless doormat. We human beings are urged to be kind and yet also to be firm, honest, and bold. Kindness is not merely a personality trait, though some personalities find kindness easier than others. Those who are inclined to be fiercely outspoken or driven strategists are also expected to be kind when opportunities demand it.

Kindness is a Fruit of the Spirit, so its origins are in God’s own character. God is kind in that He is graciously gentle with those in need. That doesn’t make Him a weak-kneed pushover – He stands resolutely against that which displeases Him. It does mean that when someone genuinely turns to Him for help, He acts with kindness. Our God is no purse-lipped tyrant, forever showing disapproval to people. His sending Jesus to bring us back to Himself is the supreme act of kindness.

And we need to remember that God’s kindness is not only shown in Jesus’ rescue mission but through the varied words and acts of other human beings whom He brings across our path. Human kindness is to be shown to others as divine kindness is shown to us. Such kindness may not hit the headlines. The mark we make on our world is often a trail of gracious gentleness and unknown kindnesses.

Written by DAVID REAY