"Let all bitterness and wrath, anger, clamor, and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another, just as God forgave you through Christ" (Eph., ch. 4, v. 31 - 32*).
My day started with hurt and irritation from the critical remarks of a friend. As I ran errands, my anger grew and I began to sulk. The parking lot in front of the grocery store was full, but I spotted a free spot ahead. I hurried and turned towards it, but at that moment I saw a car approaching with its turn signal blinking. I frowned while waiting for the other driver to park. To my surprise, however, the man stopped and waved for me to take the spot. I was grateful, but the gesture did not touch me deeply.
I quickly did my shopping and found myself behind the same person at the checkout. He turned, smiled, and began to help me place my items on the belt while the cashier scanned his. I stood there astonished. I returned the smile and thanked the man for helping me twice. He shrugged and said:
- It costs nothing to be kind.
I felt my face turn red as I recalled Christ's commandment: "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John, ch. 13, v. 34*). I realized I had gotten angry over something trivial and was filled with gratitude. I was thankful for the man whose benevolent actions influenced my attitude that day.
Prayer: Dear God, help us to focus on being kind when things do not go our way. Let us not forget to love one another, regardless of circumstances. Amen!
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2024-01-11
* Biblical quotes are from The Bible, a new translation from the original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013