Gentleness

Let your gentleness be evident to all…” Philippians 4: 5

No matter where you live or where you are from you know him. He may be seen today in the big city, in a small town, or on a farm far from any urban area. He may be on a mission field, a church, a hospital or in thousands of different places. He may be anywhere in the world. He speaks many languages. He is a huge man, strong with a rough appearance. He is small in stature, meek, and unassuming. He speaks with a booming voice. He is quiet, and doesn't have much to say. He has many names, and he is making a positive difference in our world.

This man is found in every occupation, and in every culture. He is rich, and he is poor. He is educated, or has no formal education, but most importantly he is a gentle man with a tender heart. And so it is with the women of the world. Their gentle hearts impact a child from the womb until the death of the aged. A gentle person brings calm to almost any explosive relationship, to any person that is hurting, or torn by conflict within the depths of their being. These gentle souls can lighten the heavy load. They can bring a hush over the most volatile situation.  The influence of a gentle presence is very much needed in our world today.

What is this humanity which wars on every front--within the heart and soul, toward its fellow man, and at the tremendous price of violating the right of every human to live in peace? What is this hatred which gave a young man the courage to destroy the lives of innocence? What misguided life path leaves a person void of even a hint of tenderness? No matter who you are, or what you believe you have to agree the world needs more men and women who bring a gentle influence to the hearts of people everywhere. Let your gentle, tender spirit touch the world wherever you go. May the gentle Spirit of Jesus be seen in each of us.