First of all, I love this verse and it is possibly my favorite verse out of the 595 pages in my Bible. I even went so far as to include it in my personal mission statement. Yes, I believe that as a whole, if we really love others the world would be a better place...insert Jackie Deshannon song here....
Take a good look around
And if you're feeling down
Put a little love in your heart
I hope when you decide
Kindness will be your guide
Put a little love in your heart
And the world will be a better place
(And the world)
And the world will be a better place.
Sorry if this song is stuck in your head all day.. my apologies. But back to the purpose of this blog, my message that I would like to convey. At the end of my Bible Study, we always break up into small groups and pray. Prayer requests are shared and then we bounce back and forth praying aloud for one another. Tonight, I asked the group to keep one of my close friends in their thoughts and prayers. I had been struggling with her diagnosis and praying for this individual. (On a side note, her strength has been remarkable and inspiring.) But tonight, I shared my prayer request with the group.
As we went around, one of the girls took my prayer request. This was one of the most beautiful prayers I have heard. It was so incredibly touching, but maybe it was touching to me because this was such a personal item close to my heart. See my best friend is truly an individual that has practiced "Don't just pretend to love others. Really love them." Her love for others as well as her best friend (me) is so true and genuine. I'm not sure what i would do without this individual in addition to those close friends in my life who truly love me for me. But "D" who doesn't even know my friend prayed for her. For what I am guessing was about 30 seconds, she prayed for an individual she doesn't even know. She practiced Romans 12:9, don't just pretend to love others, really love them. She genuinely prayed a heartfelt prayer for my friend.
So tonight at the end of Bible Study, I thanked "D" for this kind prayer. She may never know just how much this small gesture meant to me, but it meant a lot and touched my heart. I feel so fortunate to be in a Bible Study with people who together as a group are working to strengthen our faith.
Tonight a 30 second prayer made an impact in my life. What 30 second "thing" will you do today to impact another? All it takes is 30 seconds to let someone know you care or to put a smile on a friend's or stranger's face. I am not perfect, but I pray that each day the Lord will help guide my life so that little gestures of kindness impact others because I have been BLESSED with acts of kindness that are genuine and display love for others. Go out... (if its not too icy) and do something for someone. Step outside your comfort zone and do something for a stranger. You might be surprised at how wonderful your soul will feel.
"Therefore God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Colossians 3:12
Thank you for reading and helping me in my journey of faith, patience, and love that serves the Lord:)