James Moore tells about a man named George. George was a peacemaker with a big heart and wonderful sense of humor. Everyone loved George at church, and he was respected at the hospital where he worked. The reason why so many people loved George was because he was always kind and respectful to everyone he met.

George’s children clearly remember the days George spent in the hospital before his death. The administrator of the hospital paid him a visit. They spoke as though they were old friends. A few minutes later one of the janitors came to visit George. They too had a nice visit.

When the janitor left, one of George’s children said to him, "Dad, did you realize that you treated the president of the hospital and the janitor just alike?" George smiled, chuckled, and then said, "Let me ask you something: If the administrator left for two weeks and the janitor left for two weeks, which one do you think would be missed the most?"

Then George called his children around his bed. "Let me show you something I carry in my pocket all the time," he told them, "even when I mow the lawn." George pulled out a pocket-sized cross and a marble with the golden rule on it. George said, "On the cross are written these words, ‘God Loves You,’ and on the marble are these words, ‘Do unto Others as You Would Have Them Do unto You.’ The cross reminds me of how deeply God loves me, and the marble reminds me of how deeply God wants me to love others.”²

God makes no exception of persons, and as His chosen people, we are to do the same. Each person we encounter deserves to be treated kindly, even when they are not kind! These are actually the people that need kindness the most, as they desperately need to be shown the way to Jesus. The Bible says we were ALL sinners and fell short of the glory of God. Jesus died to give salvation to any person who accepts it.

So, whenever the Lord puts someone in your path, regardless of who they are, remember to show the same compassion and kindness that He has shown you.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, help me be an example of your love, patience, and kindness to all those I encounter. Only you know the struggles someone may be facing, and one simple act of kindness can give them the encouragement they need. Use me to bring them to you. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

1. Colossians 3:12 (NIV).

2. James W. Moore, WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS..., (Nashville: Dimensions for Living, 1993), p. 78.

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.