Yes, there is a “season for everything” (including apparently non-gentleness).  Yes, we say with Paul that the capacity for gentleness is a fruit of “the Spirit.”

Yes, the world seems so entirely lacking in gentleness in this Time. 

This is also true — There is a Christ-like path and power that is STRONG in gentleness, that is WISE through tender hearts.  We have only to look at the Table and the Cross, in the unconditional love which animated Christ’s blessings and sacrifice. In the force of forgiving love which indeed renewed community after his resurrection and created a new path for those that saw how this kingdom had won the victory over Rome’s violence.

Paul says that cross is “foolishness to the world” and the wisdom of God to us.  We might wrestle with the idea that gentleness may be foolishness and so it might in the wrong form or season. 

What is the right understanding of this fruit?  What form ought gentleness – infused with spiritual power and strength — take?  How might a greater measure of gentleness ease your heart or guide your actions or speech?  

As we walk together in a divided time, with violence increasing all around us, we are asked to trust the One who can guard our hearts and minds with peace.  The One who can vaccinate us against the virus of violence which would infect our hearts and minds.  May all our pain and passions be given to this One who gives us new life, even today.

In Christ’s Peace,
Pastor Jacki