Jesus said, “I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:29)
Sitting on the back step one early-fall afternoon, I watched orange butterflies randomly fluttering from flower to flower. One settled, wings resting upright, on the golden center of a bright white daisy. In the background insects hummed, accompanied by crickets chirping, “Sweet-sweet!” Tall grasses swayed slightly in the breeze. Across the lawn, sunshine illuminated crimson leaves into even brighter shades of flame.
Here in my walk-side garden, I was enjoying a small Eden of tranquility, crafted just for me. It was a gift from my heavenly Father. What did it tell me about Him? The scene spoke to me of quiet rest and gentleness. I heard His gentleness in the sweet cricket song and whispering breezes. I saw His gentleness in the flutter of fragile butterfly wings.
God also revealed His gentle side to the prophet Elijah, who had fled to a mountain cave. God spoke to him, not in the wind, fire, or earthquake, but in a gentle whisper. He reminded Elijah that he was not alone in serving God (1 Kings 19:12-18). God had a plan for him.
God continues to call us, when we stop to drink in the gentleness we feel in His world created for us. He reminds us, “This is Me, your heavenly Father, telling you that you’re going to be okay. Rest in my quietness. I will be with you wherever you go.”
Calm me, God, with Your gentleness.