Be Kind

I've lost enough loved ones to realize this life is short!  We aren't guaranteed tomorrow, and we never know what it will hold.  I'm not talking about tucking tail and running in fear; I'm speaking of making the most of every day and considering the legacy we will leave today.

We will never regret extending kindness, even when human nature tells us to withhold it when unreciprocated.  

I've been pondering what this looks like as a believer.  
1) Do I love only when loved?
2) Do I forgive only when forgiven?
3) Am I kind to those who hurt me or my children?

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Romans 12:18

Church, we are held to a standard of living as Christ.  

We radiate joy!  

Or do we?

Would anyone really want to come into our camp?  Are we clenching our fists and sporting a frown while passing judgmental glances...even at our brothers and sisters?

Or are we extending our hand in greeting to everyone we see?  After all, we might be the only glimpse of kindness they get.

Think of it this way:  When you walk into a room of people (not close friends and family, but people you know), do you bring them up, or take them down?  Will folks breathe a sigh of relief when you leave the room, or will they miss your presence?

I know, we all have a story, some written in tragedy, some simply circumstances of inconvenience.  We can't choose our trials.  We can only choose our response.  Do we mourn with those who mourn and celebrate with those who celebrate?

Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.

Romans 12:15

My heart is so heavy over this, and I know it starts with me!  The conclusion I've drawn is that to act without kindness and courtesy is a matter of pride.

It doesn't mean we all have the same passions or agree on every issue.  We are, after all, uniquely crafted by the Father.  We have different personalities and appearances, but one thing is universal: how we treat one another.  

Like it or not, we are accountable for everything we do...or don't do.

After all, we have hope, y'all!  This life isn't as good as it gets!  This is only preparation for eternal life with Christ!  That, my friend, is something to celebrate!

Thank You!

Our first Be the Change t-shirt campaign raised $1141, thanks to YOU!

Wow!
The campaign closed at 11 p.m. September 24, and your shirts will be shipped within 2 weeks!  We'd love for you to send us a picture of you wearing your new tee!  

As for where we are in the adoption process, our home study will be finalized this week, and we will submit our USCIS application.  We've been doing paper work at breakneck speed because:
1. our treasure's file was going back to China
2. our USCIS clearance expires next month
3. we get to re-use our dossier

For those reasons we are fundraising like crazy.  We fully trust that God has a plan to provide every dollar we need to get our little guy home soon.

Change begins with us!

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

John 14:18