In today’s scripture reading, Paul was sailing through stormy seas with a large group of people who were scared and beginning to lose hope on their journey to Rome.

As they came upon an island, the inhabitants – who had no reason to trust this large group of strangers – showed them uncommon kindness. They built a fire and welcomed their visitors with open arms as fellow humans in need of warmth and sustenance. Paul then showered the islanders with kindness of his own, by using the power of the Holy Spirit to heal every man, woman and child suffering with illness.

How different would this scenario have been if the islanders had turned away the members of Paul’s ship out of fear? The kindness continued, as the islanders honoured Paul and the others by giving them all the supplies they would need to continue their journey safely.

How many times have we allowed selfishness, fear or lack of trust to prevent us from behaving similarly to others? What if, instead, we as Christians were to show kindness so uncommon that it surprises the receivers and causes them to wonder where this type of hospitality comes from? In showing such kindness, we would display the love of Christ.

 

Prayer: O God, grant us the faith to show kindness without fear and with abundance in order to glorify you. Amen