Mark Twain describes kindness as “a language the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” Kindness is a disposition to be gracious, friendly, sympathetic, benevolent, and generous. In a world given to hatred and revenge, it is refreshing to experience kindness.
The kindness of God can change even the cold and callous heart. Some think of God as the Great Avenger – always looking for opportunities to stomp us into passive submission to His sovereign will. Others see Him as an overly permissive grandfather who “lovingly” indulges the wicked rebellion of His people. But, God is represented by neither extreme. He is the perfect blend of both love and righteousness. Paul mentioned both characteristics when he wrote: “Behold then the kindness and severity of God; to those who fell, severity, but to you, God’s kindness, if you continue in His kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off” (Rm. 11:22). We must avoid unbalanced perspectives of God. He possesses perfect justice and holiness; but, also, infinite love and kindness.
Jesus perfectly demonstrated these qualities in His life. If we would develop a kinder disposition, we must follow His example and “put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…” (Col. 3:12). A parallel thought is found in Paul’s letter to the Ephesians where he writes: “And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you” (Eph. 4:32). Both of these passages highlight the tremendous love and mercy of God in sending His Son to die on the cross for us. When we struggle to show kindness to others, we should pause and reflect on how kindly we have been treated by our Father. This will help us show kindness to others in the things we do and say. In this way, the language of kindness will be heard by the deaf and seen by the blind.
— Glen Elliott —