A Kindness that Witholds Nothing: Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

"The Lord is gracious and merciful...slow to anger, of great kindness." Psalm 145:8

In a week where the Gospel readings are heavy with theological tension, the psalm comes like a balsam: The Lord is gracious and merciful... of great kindness. Sometimes, we need that. Not a complex explanation, not a heavy teaching, just the reminder that God’s deepest disposition toward us is one of kindness.

Kindness, in the biblical sense, isn’t just a nice trait to have. It’s a powerful force. It holds back anger. It chooses patience. It offers compassion to all of creation, without exception.

The Lives of the Saints

St. Francis of Paola, whose memorial we observe today, lived kindness in a radical way. He embraced a life of extreme poverty and prayer, far away from the eyes of the world, and yet people were drawn to him. Not because he wanted fame or followers, but because they found in him something of God’s mercy.

He healed the sick, comforted the suffering, and even intervened in politics, but always as a servant, never seeking credit. He once said, "Charity is the anchor of the Christian life." For him, kindness was not a feeling but a commitment, to be gracious even when rejected, to be merciful even when misunderstood.

Today, perhaps we are not called to the same life of solitude or miracle-working. But we are called to anchor ourselves in kindness: to be slow to anger, generous with our patience, and gracious in our words. In a world that rushes, judges, and divides, even small acts of kindness become powerful witnesses.

Reflect

Where in my life am I being called to reflect God’s kindness, especially in ways that cost me time, energy, or pride?

Prayer:
Lord, gracious and merciful,
help me to be more like you
slow to anger, rich in kindness,
compassionate toward all.
Let my words heal,
let my silence be gentle,
and let my actions reflect the quiet strength of love.
Amen.