Cordial

Definition of Cordial: politely pleasant and friendly (Merriam-Webster, n.d.)

Everyone loves the nice guy, right? But it's much harder to be the nice guy or gal. How about being cordial? Cordial can be equated to being kind, polite, respectful, considerate-- you get my gist. As Christian women, exemplifying and applying a cordial demeanor and attitude is crucial to improving ourselves and making a difference in our surroundings. This is easier said than done. This world is corrupted by sin and wickedness, and the mindset of "You Only Live Once" often bleeds into selfish behaviors and attitudes that usually bring nothing but quarrels and division. In a biblical sense, being cordial can be equated to gentleness and kindness, two fruits of the spirit. As a woman today, it is challenging to be kind to everyone, especially when we are met with disrespect, disapproval, and rejection. However, when we truly understand and embody ourselves with the grace and kindness we were shown on the cross, we remember the love within each of us that makes it natural to be compassionate, empathic, loving, and forgiving--which we can call it being cordial.

Thus, as women of Christ, we are called to be gentle and kind because Jesus was gentle and kind. As followers who exemplify kindness and gentleness, we express His love through them.

How can I be cordial to someone who doesn't deserve it? Who has wronged me? Offended me?

Here is my answer.

The cross.

Jesus came into this world already hated and persecuted on the day of his birth, and throughout his life, he was accused, wronged, tempted, threatened, abused --the point is, I can go on and on. But he understood and forgave those who mistreated him. He offered kindness, humility, and compassion not to those who followed and loved Him but to those who despised Him. He humbled Himself and came down on earth from His heavenly throne because He loved us and knew we needed a savior. A savior to save humanity because we were so far gone in sin. So far from our true selves when He created us. We are flawed, broken, and misunderstood. However, our Creator is perfect, the ultimate healer and mender, and understands you completely.

Psalm 139:13

"For you formed my inward parts;

you knitted me together in my mother's womb"

God knew before you were conceived every word, every thought, every action, every interaction, every downfall, and every accomplishment you will ever do in this lifetime. This means that He knows all of us on a deep and intimate level. We may not fully understand why some of us are rude or inconsiderate, but God knows the person inside and out behind every frame. We may not know everyone's trials and tribulations, but we can treat others with respect and dignity regardless of whether they reciprocate. We should not expect the same cordialness from others that we display. This is what sets us apart from the world. We give grace to those who hurt us because God has shown us grace time and time. Jesus informs his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:43-44)

When we interact with others and treat them cordially, it can have a lasting and loving impression. We can be cordial in many ways. One simple, overlooked way is acknowledgment. Think about it: we are so tied to our phones today, more than ever, in 2025, and the disconnect is evident in our everyday lives. Walking past and ignoring one another has become normalized because we listen to music on our headphones or text someone. Making eye contact and smiling as we pass by has become strange and uncalled for because the world has normalized that. It's time we denormalize neglect because that's what it is and demonstrate the love of Jesus with acknowledgment. God plans to unite and keep our human bond to serve His kingdom.

Human-to-human connection is at risk. God did not create us to be alone, tied to ourselves, and live in our comfortable little bubbles. He created us to interact, lead, serve, and love one another. This is part of His plan for us. I am not saying be friends with every stranger you interact with; I get it you are not Jesus! However, we are called to exemplify Christ as He continues renewing us every day, and by remaining cordial in situations and interactions, we are serving Him and each other.

2 Corinthians 4:16

"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away,

our inner self is being renewed day by day"

I urge you, ladies, to make it a habit to say hello to someone you pass by or smile, and if you are met with contempt, pray for them in your heart and mind; you never know what he or she may be going through or have gone through.

I'll finish with this: I have had the privilege of being a greeter at my church, and it has indeed shown me how a simple smile, acknowledgment, "good morning," and "it's good to see you" is impactful and brings us together as we were designed to be. We are designed to be together and connect.

Let us not forget to be cordial in our daily lives.