SMILE!

Colossians 3:12-17 - New International Version (NIV)

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

I read about a man who had become so despondent that he was going to take his life by jumping off a bridge. As he was walking toward the bridge, he decided that if he met just one person who smiled and appeared to be friendly, he won’t jump. Strangely, the story ends without telling what happened, but the writer asked some penetrating questions: suppose that man had passed you or me on that dark day, would he have changed his direction? Would he have chosen life over death? Or would he have carried out his desperate plan?

The chance of encountering an individual in that state of mind is small. Yet everyday, we come in contact with many people who are carrying heavy burdens, facing trying situations, or worrying about the future. They long for a kind word, a sympathetic ear, and a warm smile that reflects a caring heart.

I know a young man who is always ready with a big smile that radiates the love of Christ. I believe he is the kind of person who would have caused that desperate man heading for the bridge to stop and turn around.

Today, for Jesus’ sake and with Christ- like love, may we encourage people who are hurting by giving them a kind word and a friendly smile!
It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but it scattered the night like morning light, and made the day worth living.

If you see someone without a smile today, give them one of yours.