Imagine you have a bucket, and all the “supplies” inside are for your interactions with people. What’s in your bucket?
Jesus points out a number of things that we can choose to pour out on others—material possessions, love, good deeds, money, mercy, and pardon. It’s an impressive list. And yet He also challenges us to love our enemies, do good to those who mistreat us, give to “takers,” lend without expecting anything in return, and grant mercy to those who don’t deserve it. Why would He call us to this? Because as God’s children, we’re expected to treat others the way He treats them—“for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil people” (Luke 6:35).
The second thing to consider is the size of our bucket. Jesus says that by our standard of measure, it will be measured back to us (Luke 6:38). However, we are also told to expect nothing in return from those we treat with kindness (v. 35). The ultimate reward for our loving and gracious behavior will come, not from them but from God.
What are you pouring onto others? By showering them with grace, you display the character of your Father. Use a bucket full of love and kindness, and you’ll discover that the Lord uses an even bigger bucket to lavish His goodness upon you.