The 3 B’s: Be Kind, Be Love, Be Jesus
As we embark on a new school year, let’s talk about your child’s kingdom impact. Forget the traditional 3 R’s—reading, writing, and arithmetic—for a moment. While those skills remain extremely important, I want to highlight something even more essential: the 3 B’s—Be Kind, Be Love, Be Jesus. These biblical principles can make your child a beacon of light in today’s hurting world.
After a decade of cyber schooling, my daughter Rachel desired to pursue a performing arts education. So, she embarked on a new journey at Lincoln Park Performing Arts School as a dance major in 10th grade some years ago. This marked her introduction to in-person schooling, with all its social intricacies. I reminded her before she’d get on the bus to be kind, be love, and be Jesus to the world, regardless of how others may treat her. We'd share a laugh together, but she knew the profound intent behind my words.
If we examine the Bible, we find invaluable guidance. In Luke 6:31, Jesus advises, "Do to others as you would have them do to you." Paul echoes this sentiment in Ephesians 4:32: "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Likewise, Jesus teaches in John 13:15: "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." Paul reinforces this in 1 Corinthians 11:1: "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ."
By consistently practicing kindness, love, and emulating Jesus' teachings, one can make profound impacts on the world around us like:
Promoting Compassion: Acts of kindness and love create a ripple effect. People treating others well inspire and encourage similar behavior, fostering an environment of honor, respect and support.
Building Unity: Kindness and love bridge divides, creating inclusivity. These traits cultivate empathy, understanding, and belonging among diverse groups.
Personal Growth: Practicing kindness and love nurtures virtues like patience, forgiveness, and empathy. This contributes to personal growth, peace, and fulfillment.
Inspiring Change: Demonstrating these qualities encourages others to reflect on their actions and values. Leading by example motivates positive changes in others' lives.
Living the Gospel: Consistently embodying kindness, love, and compassion is a testament to the gospel's transformative power. These actions make the message relatable and appealing to others.
Reflecting God’s Nature: By demonstrating these qualities, believers mirror God's attributes, drawing people closer to God and recognizing God's goodness. They feel valued and loved on a level only God can fulfill.
Be kind, Be Love, Be Jesus may have started as a silly way to encourage my daughter in her new season, but if you encourage your children to live by these biblical principles, it will empower them to be impactful, one person at a time. They will inspire positive change through love, growing God’s kingdom, and their own faith journey simultaneously.