HAVE you ever met someone who was stand-out kind?
Genuinely caring, perhaps went the extra mile for no obvious reason, and you found yourself wondering why?
There are plenty of possible explanations, such as enjoying working with people, wanting to do a good deed or provide the best possible service. Whatever the reason, being kind is often easier when there’s something in return.
But we also know that it can be hard, patience runs thin, time and energy are limited.
Most of us have a genuine desire to be loving.
We know the world would be a better place if we were.
Yet goodwill alone doesn’t always carry us through the difficult moments.
Jesus’ greatest commandments were to love God and to love our neighbour (Matthew 22:37–39).
Christians believe that love was shown most clearly through Jesus; in his life, his death and his resurrection.
He even said: ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends’ (John 15:13).
That is what he did for us.
When loving others feels difficult, many Christians return to the cross, remembering the grace they have received and choosing to love in response.
We were indebted, but are now free.
It is costly to love, but was even more so for Jesus.
He loved us first and his grace is open to all.
Scott Soithongsuk is a member of Christ Church Wokingham, which meets at St Crispin’s School on Sundays at 10:30am.
For information, visit: abch.org.uk
