The Power of Kindness
Rebuilding Our Nation with Love
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." - Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
In our world today, kindness and compassion seem to be fading from the hearts of many. As we reflect on this verse from Ephesians, we are reminded of the importance of being kind and loving to one another. Kindness isn't just an optional virtue—it is a reflection of God's own love for us. We are called to treat others with the same grace and forgiveness that God extends to us daily.
As a country, we need to go back to this fundamental truth: kindness builds bridges, restores relationships, and unites communities. Without it, division takes root, and bitterness grows. Our society thrives when respect and love are at the forefront, just as Saint Francis of Assisi embodied in his life.
Saint Francis, known for his humility, love for nature, and deep compassion for people, is a perfect example of someone who lived out this Biblical calling. He chose to live simply and served others with profound kindness, often reaching out to those considered outcasts. His life was a testimony of what happens when we put others first, offering forgiveness and compassion, even to those who may not deserve it.
Just as Saint Francis saw the face of God in every person, we too must learn to see beyond the surface differences and treat everyone with the kindness that Christ modeled for us. Imagine a country where love and respect lead every interaction. A society that remembers its roots of decency and compassion can heal from its divisions and walk in unity.
We may not be able to change the entire nation overnight, but if each of us takes up the mantle of kindness—being slow to anger and quick to forgive—we will begin to see transformation. Saint Francis once prayed, "Lord, make me an instrument of your peace." Let us also pray for our hearts and our country to return to the kindness and compassion that Christ calls us to live out each day. Through this, we will experience the healing of relationships, communities, and ultimately, our nation.
The Story of Saint Francis of Assisi
Saint Francis of Assisi, born Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone in 1181 or 1182 in Italy, is one of the most beloved saints in Christian history. Raised in wealth, he lived a carefree life as a young man, indulging in luxury and dreaming of fame as a knight. However, after a series of experiences, including illness and a brief period of imprisonment, Francis began to question his way of life.
The turning point in his spiritual journey came when he heard God’s call in a dilapidated chapel. As he prayed before a crucifix, he heard Christ speak to him, saying, "Francis, repair my church, which is falling into ruin." Initially, he took this literally and began to rebuild local churches by hand, but he soon realized that his calling was deeper—a spiritual rebuilding of the Church and society through love, humility, and poverty.
Rejecting his father’s wealth, Francis embraced a life of poverty and simplicity. He devoted himself to serving the poor, sick, and outcasts. Francis became known for his deep love for animals and nature, seeing all of creation as God’s handiwork. His famous "Canticle of the Sun" praises God for the beauty of creation and reflects his belief in the interconnectedness of all life.
In 1209, Francis founded the Franciscan Order, which was dedicated to living the Gospel in radical simplicity and humility. His joyful spirit, profound compassion, and love for all living things attracted many followers.
Francis’s legacy of humility and compassion continues to inspire millions today. Canonized just two years after his death in 1226, he is often remembered for his prayer, "Lord, make me an instrument of your peace," a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love, kindness, and peace.