We pass him frequently on our way home. An older man, he sits with his folding chair out on his front lawn. He waves to everyone who passes by, as though they were an old friend. His presence like a gentle reminder of care and love that still exist in a sometimes-hurting world. How often we rush around in life, too busy to offer something as simple as an unexpected kind gesture. There have been times where I passed this man, and his thoughtful wave, added just the right amount of peace and kindness I needed just then. Friend, we all need to be reminded of kindness and love in the world. May we not get so busy that we let people pass by us, not giving them any thought. Not giving them so much as a friendly smile, a gentle head nod, or a friendly wave. I don’t know this older man. I don’t know his story. I don’t know even for how many years he has been waving at passer byes. Though I do know myself, and so many others, drive down that particular road, around a particular time, just to be greeted by him. I know life is busy and we can’t always bring out a folding chair to wave at people. However, we encounter people daily and, in those moments, we are given opportunities to offer sweetness and softness, in a sometimes bitter and hard world. I truly believe this is a calling as Christians we all should do. This reminds me of a love like Jesus, spreading joy and peace. I also think we can learn something from our friend, the waving man; that kindness leaves a rippling effect, spreading warmth in a sometimes-cold world.

Erin Fitts-Brower

The waving man

Colossians 3:12 NIV

 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.