Written By Pastor James

Welcome to another Friday edition of “Growing Greatness”! I’m Pastor James, and I’m grateful you’re joining us as we invest in raising #BeAmazing kids here in Bartlett and all around Memphis. Last week, we explored gratitude—today, we turn to a value that spreads warmth and strengthens every relationship: Kindness.

Why Kindness Matters

Kindness isn’t just being polite—it’s the daily choice to treat others with care, respect, and compassion, no matter what. In a world that can sometimes feel abrupt or divided, simple acts of kindness have the power to heal hearts, lift spirits, and build stronger families and communities. When we teach our children kindness, we prepare them to be leaders who love well and make a difference.

The Bible calls us in Ephesians 4:32:

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Kindness grows when we see others as God sees them—precious and worthy of love. Sometimes, a small act of kindness can be the spark that changes someone’s whole day, or even their life.

How to Grow Kindness at Every Age

For Young Children (Ages 3–7)

• Model Gentle Words: Let your little ones hear you speaking kindly to others and about others—even when you’re frustrated.

• Kindness Stones: Paint rocks with cheerful colors or messages (“You Are Loved!”). Leave them in the yard or at the park for others to find.

• Role Play: Use toys or puppets to act out helping, sharing, and comforting scenarios. Celebrate when your child shows real-life kindness!

For Elementary Kids (Ages 8–12)

• Kindness Challenges: Start a family kindness chart—every time your child helps, shares, or encourages, add a sticker or star.

• Secret Service: Encourage your child to do anonymous good deeds at home or school, like slipping a nice note into someone’s backpack.

• Bible Stories on Kindness: Read about the Good Samaritan or Ruth and Naomi. Talk about how their choices made a difference.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

• Random Acts of Kindness: Challenge your teen to look for opportunities throughout their week—offering a seat, encouraging a friend, or volunteering at a local ministry.

• Listen & Encourage: Kindness isn’t just about actions; it’s about listening deeply and supporting friends who are struggling.

• Family Service Projects: Work together to serve the Bartlett or Memphis community—clean up a park, help at a food pantry, or write notes to homebound neighbors.

How Does Your Family Show Kindness?

Every family embodies kindness in unique ways—through words, actions, hugs, and help. Whether it’s opening the door for a stranger, standing up for someone, or simply sharing a smile, kindness multiplies when we practice it daily. And every kind act, no matter how small, helps us all grow into God’s image.

Kindness Lights Up Memphis

Imagine Memphis—and Bartlett—overflowing with kindness! Let’s inspire our kids to be light-bringers in their schools, churches, and neighborhoods. Share your family’s stories of kindness, and encourage others to pass it on.

Let’s keep growing greatness together. One kind word, one caring deed, one loving family—and one amazing city at a time.

Look for next week’s article on Patience—coming Friday!

Blessings,

Pastor James