GENTLENESS

“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.“
— Philippians 4:5 (NIV)

As we move through the season of Advent, a time of anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ, we are invited to reflect on the virtues that Christ exemplifies and that he calls us to embody. One such virtue is gentleness. In a world that often prizes strength, assertiveness, and power, gentleness can seem like a quiet, even countercultural, quality. However, Christ, who is the embodiment of all virtues, exemplified gentleness in his life on earth.

Gentleness is not weakness; it is power under control. It is a softness in spirit that does not bend under the weight of pride or arrogance but responds with kindness, patience, and understanding. How do I respond to difficult or challenging situations? Am I quick to be gentle or do I find myself reacting with impatience or harshness? Jesus’ own approach to life and ministry was marked by gentleness: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:28-29). Here, Christ presents gentleness as a source of comfort, a balm for those who are tired, wounded, or in need of solace.

In the Advent season, as we await Christ’s birth, we can reflect on how this virtue plays a role in our own spiritual journey. In what ways can I show gentleness to others in this Advent season? Who in my life might need a gentle word or gesture of kindness? Gentleness creates space for peace to enter our hearts, preparing us for the joy that Christmas brings. It is in gentleness that we open ourselves to receive God’s love, and it is in gentleness that we are called to offer love to others. Just as Christ was gentle with his disciples, with the poor, and even with those who persecuted him, we are invited to be a living reflection of his gentleness in the world.

How does Christ’s example of gentleness impact my understanding of strength and power? How can I practice gentleness as a sign of my trust in God’s presence and power? As we move forward in this Advent season, let us consider how we might embody gentleness in our thoughts, words, and actions. The coming of Christ reminds us that God’s kingdom is not built through dominance, but through love, humility, and gentleness.

What are some obstacles in my life that prevent me from being gentle? How can I surrender those areas to God for healing and transformation? As we continue our Advent journey, let us seek to follow the example of Christ, who is gentle and humble in heart, offering us rest, peace, and the strength to live gently with one another.