If you’re like me, often I’m at a loss to know the kind of gift that I should get someone. Today in our very affluent and somewhat pampered society, the ordinary or typical kind of gift just doesn’t seem to ‘cut-it’ anymore; it’s becoming harder and harder to surprise or please people.

As I’ve though about this recently I began to ponder just what would be the kind of gift that just keeps on giving. One that had great value, but had an affordable price tag; one that was not easily lost, misplaced or merely forgotten; one that would fit any age, personality and environment. One that all of us could manage regardless of our personal circumstances. You guessed it yet? It’s the gift of kindness. The gift of giving yourself!

Apart from what today is becoming more a rare demonstration of random kindness, kindness does not seem to happen randomly like it might have done in generations past. I think kindness is an intentional act, one that is born out of a personal understanding of God’s grace and generosity to us. Kindness is the way we demonstrate we’ve received the gift of God’s amazing grace. I’m always moved and deeply touched by those who demonstrate this quality of giving towards me, especially when I don’t deserve it! I heard a speaker once say, ‘that kindness braids mercy, grace and humility, and asks that we think of others before ourselves.’ Kindness is like a covering over all of God’s instructions.

Therefore, we should not forget the unusual value of kindness. Give careful consideration to the following suggestions: contemplate giving some of yourself away like … phoning, emailing, texting or writing a word of encouragement to someone for no other reason than you were thinking of them. In your relational network find a person who could do with an hour of your personal time and creatively offer it to them. Hugs are always great and easy to give away (I’m a hugger and find this one ever so easy to do) they make people feel special, imparting warmth and appreciation. Find a lonely person and give them some quality time; help those who are upset and frustrated by being gentle in your response and display thoughtfulness. Consider sharing a meal or some special surprise, that the person was not expecting, and keep watch for those who might need an extra hand and show thoughtfulness to them if they are stressed, overworked or tired.