The Apostle's Fast in the Ancient FaithSample

Day 8: Gentleness - Embracing the Quiet Strength of Meekness

In the tapestry of Christian virtues, gentleness stands out as a thread of quiet strength and such impact. As we journey through the Apostle's Fast, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of gentleness in our lives, our leadership, and our relationships; a great power to transform hearts and mend relationships. Gentleness is not a sign of weakness but rather a manifestation of inner strength and humility. Today, we explore the significance of gentleness, drawing inspiration from Scripture, the teachings of the Early Church Fathers, and the compassionate examples set by the apostles.

"Like a nursing mother taking care of her own children, so, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us" (1 Thessalonians 2:7). In this passage, St. Paul uses the tender image of a nursing mother to describe his approach to ministry among the Thessalonians. His gentleness was not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of deep love and commitment to the well-being of the believers. In these words, we find the essence of gentleness - a spirit of compassion and grace that reflects the heart of our Savior. As we fast and pray, may our actions be marked by gentleness, reflecting the love of Christ to all whom we encounter. As such, in the midst of our fasting and prayer, gentleness emerges as a defining characteristic of Christ-like love. It is a quality that softens hearts, fosters understanding and promotes reconciliation. Let us embrace gentleness as a virtue to be cultivated, recognizing its ability to bridge divides and bring healing in a world marked by strife and discord.

St. John the Evangelist, often referred to as the Apostle of Love, exemplified gentleness in his correction and guidance. In his epistles, St. John addresses his readers as "little children," a term of endearment that reflects his gentle and caring approach. Although he was a monumental figure in the Early Church, one of the Twelve Disciples, an Apostle, a Gospel writer, the one who lay his head on the breast of Our Lord, yet his teachings on love, truth, and fellowship are imbued with a spirit of gentleness that seeks to edify rather than condemn.

The life of St. James, son of Zebedee and brother of St. John the Evangelist, offers a compelling example of gentleness in leadership. Known for his zeal and passion, as we also read in the Coptic Synaxarium on Parmoute 17 (around April 25th), St. James also possessed a gentle spirit that endeared him to the early Christian community. His leadership was marked by a balance of strength and gentleness, a testament to the power of this virtue in guiding and nurturing the flock of Christ. St. Clement of Alexandria, from the fathers of the second century, said: "The soldier that seized the Saint, when he saw his courage, realized that there must be a better life and asked the Saint for his forgiveness. Then the soldier confessed Christianity and received the crown of martyrdom (Acts 12:1,2) along with the Apostle [James] in the year 44 A.D." Such strength and gentleness in the face of death that it transformed the heart of his executor to that of a heart of faith and giving his life for faith in Christ! Gentleness then begins with a heart attuned to God's heart, a heart that seeks to reflect God's love and compassion in every interaction.

Gentleness, as a fruit of the Spirit, has the power to transform our leadership and relationships. It enables us to lead with love, to correct with care, and to interact with others in a way that honors their dignity and worth. In a world that often equates gentleness with weakness, we are called to reclaim this virtue as a sign of our strength and maturity in Christ. As we continue our fast, let us embrace gentleness as a way of life. May this virtue guide our steps and shape our interactions, reminding us of the gentle shepherd who leads us. In embodying gentleness, we bear witness to the transformative power of God's love, a love that heals, restores, and draws us ever closer to the heart of the Divine.

Let us pray:

Our Loving Father, who leads us with a gentle hand, cultivate in us the virtue of gentleness. Teach us to approach others with the tenderness of a nursing mother, the loving correction of St. John, and the gentle heart of St. James. May our relationships be marked by the compassion and kindness of Your heart and help us to embody gentleness in all we do, that through our words and actions, others may glimpse Your loving presence and come to You. Amen.