"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you." —Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
If I were to choose a word to characterize going forward this New Year, it would be "kindness."
Recently, I was struck by the fact that we rarely hear of compassionate deeds anymore in the news. Why is that? Wouldn't we much rather hear about the good things happening around us than the constant drip of negativity?
I know firsthand of people who are quietly sharing their time, energies, and resources to make a difference—with kindness. There is a young man who sets aside his own interests to help disabled students get to and from their fitness classes; a young woman who is assisting a suicidal teen to get the care she needs; and a special needs girl who is giving away all of her earnings from a recent Christmas art fair to help a family who lost everything in the recent tornadoes.
And, as you can imagine, there are also groups of Amish carpenters building new houses for residents in multiple states whose homes were destroyed in the historic storms.
Each of these kindhearted people is quietly performing a sacrificial act of kindness—unsung (and rather unknown) acts of mercy. There are many more just like them around the world, reaching out to others in need.
One of the most remarkable role models of kindness is Joseph in the Old Testament. After he was sold into slavery by his wicked brothers and rose in power, he demonstrated uncommon compassion to those same brothers who were hungry and desperate for food. Stop and think about it—would you or I be willing to be so generous given the circumstances?
When we are filled with Christ's love, our hearts expand to respond with kindness.
Blessing for the New Year 2022!
—Beverly Lewis
Dear Reader-Friend,
1) I'm happy to say that I've seen the mock-up for my September 2022 novel, The Orchard, and cannot wait to show you next month here on the blog. Also, my revisions are currently with my first editor for an overview, while I finish the synopsis for my 2023 novel. Lots of creativity is happening here!
2) I'm also delighted to reveal my new Amish Cheer Valentine cards! Amish Farm Critters come in a pack of five for only $10, and the wonderful Owl Easel card is $5 per card. These are available now at our secure website: www.AmishCheer.com Enjoy!
3) Finally, a great big thank-you to those who kindly sent Christmas greetings to me, and purchased The Beginning for family and friends. You are all just wonderful!
Happy New Year!
—Bev
