come & see

If you’re new to following to Jesus or have been for many years then you’ve probably heard about the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. Love, joy, peace, patience - you know the list. But tucked in there is gentleness. And this isn’t just some throwaway virtue; it’s at the core of who God is. When we look at God’s character throughout Scripture, we see a God who is both powerful and gentle at the same time. Think about Psalm 18:35, where David says, “Your gentleness has made me great.” That’s pretty intense. It’s God’s gentleness that strengthens, builds up, and restores us.

Look at Jesus. He’s the ultimate picture of God’s gentleness. When Jesus invites us to follow Him in Matthew 11:29, He says, “Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart.” Jesus could have come into the world with thunder, commanding the masses, but instead, He chose a path of gentleness. He chose a life of humility and service. He didn’t have to prove anything, but He constantly met people where they were, with grace, understanding, and care. Gentleness is so easy to write and talk about; however, at least for myself I find it very hard to believe. However, the more I lean in and commune with God the more I realize how gentle He really is. Again, let’s look at the life of Jesus - God in Human form. 

Jesus shows up, not to condemn nor bring forth guilt to anyone. He came to bring the fruits of the Spirit. He came to live in those throughout His daily practices. The wonderful thing about these practices of Jesus is that they are never commanded - they’re an invitation. Jesus just does these practices and then says “Come and you will see” John 1:39. 

I don’t share this for you to abuse the grace and gentleness of God - rather I tell you this for a change of perspective. As followers of Jesus, we are not required to complete a checklist every morning in order to be granted joy for the day. We are invited into a life of joy through a Man who reaches out His gentle hands day in and day out for your acceptance of the invitation.

-n0tbycayden