# Seeking God, Finding God: Kindness in the Second Week of Lent
*2009-03-12*

> Bill Young reflects on Psalm 103:8, explores what it means for God to truly like us, and offers a simple practice of random acts of kindness for the second week of Lent.

## The Heart of Psalm 103:8

We begin with Psalm 103:8: “The Lord is kind and merciful.” Most of us accept God’s mercy because it has been taught to us from childhood. The image of the merciful Father who welcomes the prodigal son is familiar, yet we often stop at mercy and do not consider whether God actually likes us. Kevin O’Shea, in his book *The Way of the Tenacious*, points out that believing God loves us is different from believing He delights in us. Only when we can say that God truly likes us do we begin to grasp the full depth of His kindness.

## What It Means for God to Like Us

A loving father not only forgives but also takes pleasure in his child’s return. He clothes the prodigal, gives him fine jewelry, and celebrates his presence. That delight goes beyond forgiveness; it is a genuine affection. If we can imagine God’s delight in us, we open ourselves to a richer experience of His mercy.

## Lenten Practice: Random Acts of Kindness

Today's practice invites you to return to God with a heart full of gratitude, as if you were receiving fine clothing and jewelry from a loving Father. Throughout the day, look for opportunities to perform random acts of kindness. Each act mirrors God’s own kindness and reminds us that He truly likes us. Whenever you remember, repeat silently, “God likes me,” to reinforce this truth.

## Prayer for Kindness

Merciful God, teach me Your kindness. Amen.

We also lift up prayers for the cure of cancer and for the souls of Marilyn Gonzalez and Ann Young. May God’s loving kindness be with them.

*When we recognize that God not only loves but truly likes us, our acts of kindness become a reflection of His own delight in us.*