Conventional wisdom says, “One good turn deserves another.” So, we easily engage in a transactional or reciprocal relationship that is an ongoing action of give and take. We use our natural business sense to make kindness an investment that will yield future dividends. We live, sometimes, unconsciously, by the principle that says, “Nothing goes for nothing.” Jesus instructs us to transform our minds and rise above transactional or selective relationships where our kindness is limited only to the people who can repay us in some ways. He says, “But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous” (Luke 14:13-14). Just as God’s love for us is unconditional, so are his children expected to love others unconditionally. This is not to say we should exclude our rich, prominent, and powerful relations from our celebrations and acts of kindness, but that when we make our guest list, we should be more inclusive. Our invitations should not just be for the who-is-who or crème de la crème in society, but should include the who-is-not, such as the poor, the weak, the underprivileged, and those who are confined to the margins of society and have nothing to offer us in return. Each time we carry out an act of kindness or charity, we should ask ourselves: “What is the motive for this act of kindness?” ************************ Luke 14:12-14; Monday, 31st Week