The turning of a New Year is often associated with personal resolutions - some of which you may have already abandoned after one month. Why not add resolutions to connect more deeply with both loved ones and others that are very different than you are.

This issue of American Lifestyle magazine celebrates love and kindness. Cook County, Minnesota, is known for its embracing of ‘hygge’, a Danish concept that seeks well-being. Designer Chris Goddard understands the love language of home renovation. Photographer Jamie Beck’s Isolation Creation project was a way to turn uncertainty into inspiration.   And, finally, it includes heartwarming stories of how people have experienced unexpected kindness from both loved ones and strangers.

The most prominent example in God’s Word of kindness towards strangers is the story of the Good Samaritan - found in the Gospel of Luke.  An expert in the religious law asked Jesus what he must do to receive eternal life.  Jesus responded, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ‘And who is my neighbor?’, the religious leader asked. Jesus then told the parable of Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). The key principle for us is this – the good Samaritan was the only one who reached out in kindness to the beaten, bloodied and abandoned traveler. He did not look at the injured man’s condition, race, political, economic or religious background. No, after two others had walked by, doing nothing, he helped the traveler to safety and paid in advance for his recovery. Many have deemed this kind of love for our neighbors as ‘outrageous.’ Followers of Christ know this as God’s love for all creation. Look for ways in the New Year to extend kindness and love in such an ‘outrageous’ way!

The New Year is also a time when you may be considering various financial milestones. If you are thinking about retiring this year, paying off your home or some other debt, considering a home improvement or a dream trip, then reach out to Dove Investments now so we can get an early start on helping you.

The Dove Investments Team - Tom, Rob, Jessica, & Tyler

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