Thursday, 12 December, 2002

This is a part of a series of devotions based on: God Was In This Place & I , i Did Not Know - by Lawrence Kushner.



In Judaism, the most elegant and commonly practiced method for subduing the ego is a loose catalog of acts called gemilut hasidim,usually translated as deeds of loving kindness. (leaving unharvested produce in the corners of the field for the poor & the stranger, extending hospitality to wayfarers, visiting the sick, ransoming those held captive, providing clothing for the naked, feeding the hungry, dowering the impoverished bride, attending the dead to the grave, comforting mourners, showing deference to the aged)

These deeds do not say, "You are more important," but "You are every bit as important as I am." In most cases repayment is unlikely. In one way or another, they all involve some form of selflessness in the service of someone else.



Such an outlook toward others builds character in people. Such an outlook toward those in need is that way we begin to shape the story of a people. When we are able to have our lives surrounded with such stories of loving kindness, they begin to shape how we live. Such story telling gives direction for us when it would be so easy to simply direct ourselves in the ways we want to go. Such a reminder that we are a people who are grasped by the loving kindness of our God that then comes to life within our lives has the power to change us and bring new life into our old self-centered ways. Entering into the service of others...others who are just as important as I am...is one of the most powerful building blocks of a community that we can ever expect to see take hold.



Connection: Imagine. Walking through your day looking out at those around you and living with them as though you know and believe that they are just as important as you are. Imagine that.



Compassionate God you hold us and you show us the ways of your loving kindness as a parent teaches a child how to sow or to ride a bike. Ever present and ever touching us as we learn the ways of your blessed reign and make them a part of this time. Praise and thanks be to you. Amen.