“So David sent messengers to the men of Jabesh-gilead and said to them, “Blessed are you of Adonai for showing this kindness to Saul your Lord, by burying him. So now may Adonai show you kindness and faithfulness; and I also will show you goodness because you have done this thing. Now therefore, be strong and brave, for Saul your Lord is dead, and also the house of Judah has anointed me king over them.””

‭‭2 Samuel‬ ‭2:5-7‬ ‭TLV‬‬

The national “Random Acts of Kindness” Day is celebrated annually on February 17th. Having originated in Denver in 1995 by a small non-profit organization, it become popular across the globe in 2004 when New Zealand began observing it. However, acts of kindness began long before then!

Saul tried to kill David multiple times, yet David kept an unoffended heart, punishing the man that bragged about killing Saul (he was executed) and rewarding those who showed kindness to Saul in death. 

I love David’s example. Even though he was treated badly, even though he was threatened and despondent, he responded with honor and kindness and he blessed those who did the same. And because the people were kind to and honored Saul in death, they had peace with David. 

Responding with kindness is never wrong. It may not be the easiest response but it is the right one. There’s security that comes from being kind – an inner peace and strength that comes from knowing that G-d sees and blesses a kind hand. 

No matter what I face, may kindness be my response, after all, kindness is merely a measuring out to others a potion of the great kindness He’s bestowed upon me. He’s given me more than I deserve; therefore I have plenty to give. 

Father – thank You for Your great kindness. Show me how to love others like You do. Show me how to be kind to those I encounter. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen. 

Daily Reading: 2 Samuel 1-4