And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.
Matthew 10:42

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Colossians 3:12

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“So I throw up my hands, And praise you again and again, ‘Cause all that I have is a hallelujah. And I know it’s not much, But I’ve nothing else fit for a King, Except for a heart singing hallelujah.” 

These lyrics from Brandon Lake’s beautiful song “Gratitude” capture the inadequacy of our response to God’s saving grace. All we have to offer is a hallelujah. Sometimes, in our broken state, all we can bring before Him is no words at all, just desperate silence. 

Yet God, in His heavenly mercy, is delighted at our offering, no matter how meager, so long as it’s accompanied by a heart that seeks to follow Him. The smallest gesture does not go unnoticed by God, whether that gesture is directed toward Him or other people. Just as today’s verse in Matthew illustrates, even a simple act like offering a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty is worthy of a reward in God’s kingdom. 

When was the last time someone did a seemingly small act of kindness for you that meant the world? These are moments that stay with us. As followers of Christ, we have not only the precious opportunity, but also the responsibility, to be His light in a dark world. As it says in Galatians 6:2, we are to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way [we] will fulfill the law of Christ.” 

Carrying burdens can come in many forms—kindness is one of them. How can kindness lift our burdens? By reminding us of our shared humanity. By being the tool with which we really see each other. If we are to be defined as Christ’s followers by our actions alone, let it be by the kindness we show others. Let’s offer hallelujahs wherever we go, handing them out with a spirit of compassion, seeking to glorify God through service. 

Next Steps

• Join in God’s mission to point people to Jesus by serving your community through a local serving opportunity.
• Think of ways you can offer a hallelujah to someone this week.
• Pick up a copy of The One Year Daily Acts of Kindness Devotional to be inspired to incorporate acts of kindness into your daily routine.