Gentle and Lowly: Jesus is Gentle Even Though He is Great

Sunday, we will continue our Advent series on the gentle and lowly heart of God. This week we’ll consider Jesus’ gentle heart, which is amazing considering that he is Lord of all creation. When John has a vision of Christ, in Revelation 1:12-20, Jesus is a terrifying individual. He is clothed in white with a golden sash. He has white hair with flaming, piercing eyes. His voice shakes the very foundations of creation. A sword proceeds from his mouth and to look upon him is like looking at the sun itself. John is terrified, as I would be!

In that moment, this intimidating figure touches him and says, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one.” (Rev. 1:17, 18a) Having received restored glory (John 17:5), his gentle heart has not changed. He is still kind and compassionate. The Jesus we meet in the gospels who touches the leper (healing him from his disease) — the one who calms the stormy sea; the one who heals the sick and feeds the poor; the one who is filled with compassion over and over — is the same Jesus enthroned and full of glory. He is compassionate and kind! Though our Hero King, he is our Gentle Friend.

Join us Sunday as we consider this gentle Giant!