There is a Buddhist practice called Metta Meditation (it is also called Loving-Kindness Meditation). Metta is from the Pali language, which is similar to the Sanskrit language, and defined as positive energy and kindness towards others.

The goal of Metta Meditation is to create space for loving yourself, loving others, and loving all things in the universe…even our enemies. The word love can be interchanged with kindness; kindness toward yourself, kindness towards others, and kindness towards our enemies. Replace kindness with compassion, mercy, and gratitude. Metta Meditation cultivates an awareness of positive emotions to all beings.

Does this sound like Jesus in Matthew 5:44 “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”?  Ahh…YES!

As a long-time yoga student and teacher, I have found that steeped in yoga are some really cool concepts. But…

The question I found myself asking was, “Is it possible to cultivate this positive energy and love for myself and my enemies without Christ?”

Let’s learn more…

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines lovingkindness as:

• A tenderness and consideration towards others
• The quality or state of being kind
• Treating people with kindness and respect

These are great ways to be towards others. Having a tender and considerate heart for our neighbors (our enemies); along with being respectful and kind to those we meet. We should live a life of lovingkindness. Cultivating positive energy includes us wishing happiness and love for others. This includes those difficult and challenging family members, co-workers, and neighbors.

So is lovingkindness possible?

What does the Bible say about Lovingkindness?

Lovingkindness is the English translation for the Hebrew word ‘hesed’. Found only in the Old Testament (mostly in Psalms), it also means steadfast love, faithfulness, loyalty, mercy, and kindness. More significantly, it means God’s covenant love towards us, the commitment to Israel, and thus towards humanity.

Used some 250 times in the OT–this Hebrew word is so rich in meaning.

Psalm 136:1-26

This Psalm is 26 verses, 26 times it refers to God’s lovingkindness.

Different versions of the Bible use the words listed above.

The NASB1995 version says, “His lovingkindness is everlasting.”

The NIV version says, “His love endures forever.”

The ESV version says “His steadfast love endures forever.”

What does this steadfast love, mercy, and kindness mean to you?

Father God, we are so thankful for the love and kindness you bestow on us. Psalm 138:2 Your mercy is neverending. Your faithfulness is limitless. And for this we are so grateful. You delight in showing us all your goodness. Micah 7:18 Let our hearts be filled with this truth. Let us never forget your lovingkindness. We love you, we praise you, in Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Join me in this short video practice as we pause, breathe, and bask in the richness of His lovingkindness!! It is who He is.