Love in the Small Things

In relationships with people who are dear to us, often it’s the deeper things that stick out: the long talks, laughing until you cry, and feeling safe enough to let tears fall. But what about the rest of our relationships? How about our interactions with the man on the street corner or the grocer? How do we remember them, and how do they remember us? For me, usually the only thing that sticks out is what I can grasp of their personality in those simple few minutes we spend together. And I assume that, for them, it’s the same.

One morning, out of nowhere, one of my neighbours gave me a huge smile and said good morning. Now, every time we see one another, we smile and say good morning, and it always means the world to me. That is the hint of a Christ-like attitude: genuine, unforced kindness.

Shouldn’t we endeavor to leave behind a godly impression wherever we go? Especially as the Christmas season rolls around? Shopping centers fill and stress levels rise and everyone is under pressure of some sort or another. How much good would smiling eyes or a friendly gesture mean to that random person you pass by? And what’s more, God could help you turn those small moments into ongoing, deeper relationships, so those people can see and discover the One who is giving you the fruit of kindness.

Our Father and King, help me manifest the fruit of your Spirit in all my interactions today. May people notice and see you in me. Amen.

Throughout This Day: Go out of your way to do something nice for someone. If you’re shy like me, maybe it can just be a friendly smile at a stranger. Start making it into a habit, and even an attitude. Seek Christ through this and glorify him for every positive turn of events. And as you start acting with kindness, pray that the Lord will transform these moments into opportunities to eventually share Christ.

Go Further: During the Christmas season and all through the year, thousands of people write in to us to request prayer or seek counsel. Why not consider joining our growing team of online mentors? It’s a great way to offer love and compassion during the pandemic, when other avenues of serving people might not be possible.