Virtue: Gentleness
Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11
After Jesus began His ministry at the banks of the Jordan with baptism, he spent three years wandering through Galilee and Judea preaching, healing, casting out demons, and gathering disciples. The people of Israel were waiting… waiting for a Messiah, a king. They anticipated one who would come with the power of God and gather the people together. This king would come to Jerusalem and exert his power to establish his kingdom, removing the Romans.
But Jesus comes “…gentle and riding on a donkey…” A donkey is not an animal of war and conquering. It is an animal of humility, of meekness, of gentleness. Yes, Jesus comes to establish His kingdom. But Jesus establishes His kingdom without exerting power over any person. He saves, not through force but through invitation. He is gentle.
The invitation of God is to receive Him. He does not force Himself into our lives. In gentleness and tenderness He offers His life to us through forgiveness and reconciliation to God. We receive Him through humility as well, acknowledging our sins and recognizing our need for Him.
This virtue in your life makes you look more like Jesus. As God gives opportunity to share the good news with others, it is done so in gentleness, not in force. Be like Jesus.
Questions:
1. Why is it important for God’s gift of salvation to come with gentleness?
2. How have you seen other Christian mentors or elders exhibit the virtue of gentleness in their lives?
3. What about gentleness is inviting to others in relation to the gospel?
Action:
Remember, a virtue is not something we can just will ourselves into. It is the excellence of God on display in us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Invite the Holy Spirit to help you through this action, and join with other believers to do this action with:
The virtue of Gentleness can be expressed through moments of hospitality. Think of a neighbor, co-worker, fellow student at school, etc. that needs some of God’s love.
Decide together how to practice hospitality to that person/people. Do you invite them over for a meal? Do you provide some rest for them by caring for their children? Maybe something else?
Then, invite them to allow you to bless them.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, in gentleness you reached out to me and invited me to receive your grace for salvation and freedom. Thank you for the gentle way in which you show your love. You are my king and I will follow your ways each day.
Amen
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