Tune: HE LIFTED ME
Whatever happened to kindness? Whatever happened to
loving-kindness? When did rude and condescending become the norm? Or has it?
The opening line of this hymn describes the way Jesus
approaches us: in loving- kindness, with mercy, through grace. That pretty well
describes the Christ to whom I am attracted… still.
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| Van Eyk - "Jesus" |
I admire and study the great portraits of Jesus by the
master-painters throughout art history. When visiting museums, those are the
works to which I am most often drawn. I may stand and contemplate them for long
periods of time. But it is not what Jesus looked like that fascinates me as
much as what he acted like! That stooping to scoop me up in his arms from
sinking sand – even sinking sand from which I have been rescued previously
and to which I too often return – THAT is the Savior I know and love… and
worship.
He doesn’t grab me up by the scruff, yanking me against my
will. It is rather with tender hands, soothing me and comforting even as I
struggle to be freed from the quagmire which so strenuously seeks to suck me
further downward.
I have many people to thank for showing kindness to me over
the years, but I have Hedy and Raymond to thank for teaching me the importance
of being kind… to extend that Christ-like loving-kindness. It was part of their
nature… and it is becoming mine… and in turn, my nature is turning more toward
Christ-like-ness.
Complaining, demanding one’s own way, whining – these are
not the qualities that others are drawn to. And if we intend to be attracting
people to our Lord, we must… absolutely MUST take on more of his kind nature.
Some of us would rather robe ourselves in holiness than immerse ourselves in
kindness. Wouldn’t some holy kindness be a possibility?
The next time I really want to be ‘mean,’ I need to remember
the first line of this hymn… and come at life with loving-kindness – not forced
nice-ness, but kind-hearted-ness which comes naturally because I am taking on
HIS nature.
Remember, it wasn’t that long ago you were up to your neck
in some kind of quicksand… and in
loving-kindness Jesus came along. Constant awareness of whence we came and
who brought us to where we are can make a real difference in our attitude,
turning us from cranky fault-finders to pleasant representatives of the One who
lifts us still.
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