Lenten Listenings - Intentional Acts of Kindness

In the season of Lent, we try to give more, do more, share more of what we have and serve God just a little bit more than usual. But what if that looks like a new lifestyle, a new way of being?

Who goes to the dollar store? While I’m still a bit grumpy that it’s now the Dollar Twenty-five store, I can still get a loaf of bread, a container of peanut butter and a jar of jam for under $4. Which, if I’m honest, is what I spend on a cup of coffee most days. And that simple offering provides about seven sandwiches. Yup, lunch for a week for those in need.  Scripture reminds us that God calls us to serve others, and in serving others we serve God without even realizing it.

Maybe during this season of Lent, work on simple things you can do, hold a door, let someone in in traffic, grab an extra box of pasta at the grocery store. We have 40 days to practice, and there’s an old wives’ tale that it only takes 21 days to begin a habit. What if this year we try to do one kindness a day? What if that becomes our norm? Can you imagine how much better the world would be? Yes, life is busy. But I can’t imagine a more significant way to bring about hope in the lives of those around us. ~Pastor Janet

“My father has blessed you! Come and receive the kingdom that was prepared for you before the world was created. When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat, and when I was thirsty, you gave me something to drink. When I was a stranger, you welcomed me, and when I was naked, you gave me clothes to wear. When I was sick, you took care of me, and when I was in jail, you visited me.” Then the ones who pleased the Lord will ask, “When did we give you something to eat or drink? When did we welcome you as a stranger or give you clothes to wear or visit you while you were sick or in jail?” The king will answer, “Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me.”  Matthew 25:34-40