Gentleness

Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 

Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength. -St. Francis De Sales

Gentleness is often misunderstood, sometimes seen as passive or weak. Instead of looking at gentleness as a weakness, God sees it as a strength. Paul lists it as part of the fruit of the Spirit, which reminds me how important it is.

When I face harshness, a gentle hand calms me. In grief, a gentle response comforts me. People need a gentle touch from an understanding soul.

I love witnessing how my great-nephew-in-law interacts with their five-month-old daughter. He’s gentle and patient, yet so strong in his love for her. I’ve no doubt he’d do whatever it took to protect his bundle of joy.

In Luke 2, I picture Joseph holding baby Jesus with a gentle hand, as Mary wraps the babe in swaddling clothes with love and care. No doubt Joseph cared for Mary after she gave birth.

Sweet baby Jesus grew to be a man with a gentle spirit and unmatched strength. He defended his Father, cared for his mother, and taught his apostles with patience. His gentleness lent itself to his teaching as he guided sinners to repentance, cared for the sick, and loved the people he encountered.

In a world that is anything but gentle, God calls His people to be the gentle touch the world needs. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s give the people around us a gentle and joyful response to the holiday season.

Be gentle and strong.

Galatians 5: 22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.