Use Your Words for Kindness

I had a lovely conversation the other day with an elderly woman. As she was leaving, she turned to me and spoke these words: “God love you”. In my lifetime, I had never had another person say such a thing directly to me (not preached from a pulpit). I was both flabbergasted and touched at the same time. To say such to me was, that day, the height of kindness. It was simply a three-word phrase spoken with genuine love and meant, to me, the world.

We think sometimes that the things we say are insignificant to others. However, these very same words are memorable and are carried in their hearts. Jesus’ words themselves overflowed with kindness. He ought to be our example.

One of these particularly kind remarks was regarding children. Children, who in society, are often considered unimportant. Jesus spoke these loving words amid a group of children who desired to be with him:

Matthew 19:14 KJV

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Imagine the joy those little ones must have felt hearing those words of welcome! Our dear Saviour demonstrates, through his carefully chosen words, his love for others. He blessed his followers with the following exclamation:

Matthew 12:48-50 KJV

48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren?

49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!

50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister and mother.

The enthusiasm shown by this hearty exclamation no doubt warmed the hearts of those present.

Words cost us nothing.

But to the hearer…they are priceless.

-Melanie DiLeo