Good morning, everyone!
It’s Thursday—so close to the weekend you can almost taste it! But let’s not rush past today because 5th September is special for a few reasons. Did you know today is International Day of Charity? It’s a day dedicated to recognising and encouraging acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion around the world.
This day got me thinking about the power of small, seemingly simple actions. We often think that making a difference requires grand gestures or big donations, but sometimes, the most impactful thing you can do is offer a kind word or a listening ear.
Proverbs 16:24 says, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (NIVUK). Isn’t that a beautiful image? Just like honey is sweet and nourishing, our words have the power to bring comfort, encouragement, and healing to those around us.
Think about a time when someone’s kind words made a difference in your day. Maybe it was a friend who encouraged you when you were feeling down or a stranger who offered a compliment just when you needed it most. Those moments stick with us, don’t they? That’s because our words carry weight—they can build up or tear down, encourage or discourage, heal or hurt.
Jesus understood this power. He didn’t just perform miracles with His hands; He performed miracles with His words. When He spoke to the woman caught in adultery, He didn’t condemn her; He offered her grace and a new beginning (John 8:10-11). When He called Zacchaeus down from the tree, He didn’t berate him for his past; He offered him friendship and a chance to change (Luke 19:5-9). In every interaction, Jesus used His words to lift people up, to offer hope, and to show love.
Today, on International Day of Charity, let’s take a page from Jesus’ book. Let’s use our words to bless those around us. Whether it’s a simple “thank you,” a word of encouragement, or a heartfelt prayer, your words have the power to make someone’s day—and possibly even change their life.
Reflection Verse: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”—Proverbs 18:21 (NIVUK)
As we go about our day, let’s be intentional with our words, knowing that they have the power to bring life, healing, and encouragement to everyone we meet.
