Matthew 5:14-15 You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

Have you heard the phrase “Choose Kindness”? It is a simple phrase meant to remind you that when you are presented with an opportunity to make a snide remark, gossip, criticize or be cruel, you should choose kindness instead. This simple act of choosing kindness can change the course of someone’s day, week or even life. Yes, it holds that much power.

In Matthew 5, Jesus sits down on a hillside and begins speaking to his disciples. At that time Jesus was the talk of the town and many people were following him. They all sat down and started to listen. He proceeded to give a message that they would later call “The Sermon on the Mount”.  Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bow. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”

When you choose to show kindness to someone, you are a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. You are a lamp that gives light to everyone in your circle. Don’t shut your light off from the rest of the world. Don’t be quiet when you should speak up. Don’t just go along with the crowd. Don’t ignore the needs of others. Instead, choose kindness. This simple act of obedience will open opportunities for you to connect with others and it will give you a chance to explain the light that shines through you. Jesus!

Lord, give me the courage to show kindness to others. Help me to be the city on the hill and the light on a lampstand that you can use to bring others to you. Amen.