Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
-Ephesians 4:32 ESV
From the pen of the Apostle Paul we read an inspirational and instructive word on the two dimensions of Christian discipleship. Vertically, we consider our relationship with God. Horizontally we consider our relationship with others. Both are of equal importance.
We should always consider what God has done for us. But we need to think about what we have for others. The admonition in the text is clear: Be kind to one another.
In world overwhelmed by hate and violence, the simple act of kindness is everything. It heals the hurts of many who have been deeply wounded in this life. Kindness is encouragement to people who feel like giving up. And perhaps most importantly, kindness is the touch of the Jesus coming to the rescue of those lost in sin. It redeems and restores broken people who live in broken communities.
Be kind to one another.