While brainstorming ideas for upcoming blogs, my son Seth volunteered the following: “We need more kindness, Mom. We need to live the Word, not just talk about it. We need to set our own personal example of good behavior and follow it.”

Perhaps I should explain. Seth is not particularly religious, but he has cultivated a spiritual life which gives him comfort and strength. He considers Jesus to be a friend and genuinely values the teachings that He left for us to follow. He has done battle with me on numerous occasions about the predicament that varied organized religions have created for their followers and observers. I agree with him on many points of his arguments.

However, his willingness to share this simple, straight-forward paradigm for living struck me with its sincerity and ease of application. He wasn’t being flip or sarcastic, but honest and helpful. This is his belief, set against the background of many years of religious training in school, college and church. He has distilled a working philosophy which can be applied universally without complicated debate about dogma; without a victor; without anger.

Isn’t this exactly what our Creator God instructs us to do? Love one another; be kind and helpful. Don’t hurt each other. Reach out your hand in love and assistance. Live the word of God, don’t just talk about it. There are many straight forward concepts which don’t take any training to implement immediately. Feed the poor; shelter the homeless; treat the stranger like Christ.

A few weeks ago, I wrote about the joy that my children have given me in this life. A special thanks to Seth for today’s thoughts. It is wonderful to watch him apply this philosophy to his own life. The wonder of this joy continues everyday thanks to the grace and love which I receive unconditionally from our eternal God. It is yours also; receive and cherish these blessings and this grace from our God who loves you unconditionally. Read Titus 3:4-7 and be assured once again of this eternal promise.

Terri