But intentions always beg the question - "Now what?"
This morning I was all caffeinated and feeling sunshine-y and optimistic and generous. I thought about all the people I could pop in and say hello to (via text or email or something, because, 2014). I thought about encouraging my friends, making lemonade for the roofing crew, buying extra classroom supplies for Madeline's teachers, baking with the kids for our neighbors. I was driving along, feeling very pleased with myself for being so virtuous and kind, when Bob Goff popped into my head.
"Love does, Kate."
Sure, love thinks, love plans, love intends - but then love does.
There are too many days that I allow myself to feel like a good person because I know what a good person would do. I think, "You know, it would be really nice to invite that refugee family over to dinner. That would be a loving thing to do." And I pat myself on the back for it! Is that not the most insane thing you've ever heard? I think, "A good person would do this." And then I don't do it. And I STILL FEEL PLEASED WITH MYSELF.
But I don't think I'm alone. I think intentions are deceitful and our hearts are prideful - and I think that's a recipe for apathy and selfish inaction.
So as I drove home this morning, I resolved to DO something. To do at least one loving thing. Because I want to be a loving person, and love does.
Henry Ford said, "You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." And when I die, whenever that may be, I want to leave a legacy of love. The fragrance of Christ, following me wherever I go.
"In the Messiah, in Christ, God leads us from place to place in one perpetual victory parade. Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life." 2 Corinthians 2:14-16, The Message