Embracing the Gentle Heart of Christ
In times of need, we’re invited to approach the throne of grace with confidence, receiving mercy and finding help. But what does it mean to encounter Jesus, our high priest, in those moments? Hebrews 5:2 reveals that Jesus “can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward.” This gentleness isn’t limited to specific offenses or circumstances; it’s a fundamental aspect of how Jesus interacts with all sinners who come to him.
A Tender Love for Sinners
Imagine bringing your mess to Jesus, and instead of being met with rough handling or scolding, you’re enveloped in tenderness. This isn’t because Jesus has a diluted view of your sinfulness; he knows it more deeply than you do. His restraint flows from his heart of love, which is drawn to sinners and sufferers. Jesus doesn’t dispense grace from on high; he gets down with you, puts his arm around you, and deals with you in a way that’s just what you need.
Why Gentleness?
The reason for Jesus’ gentleness lies in his own experience of weakness. As our high priest, he sympathizes with our weaknesses, having been tempted in every way we are. Though sinless, Jesus knew human limitations, suffering, and temptation. This solidarity with us deepens as we descend into pain and anguish. Look to Christ, and you’ll find gentleness; it’s the only way he knows how to be.
Looking to Christ
As long as you focus on your sin, you’ll struggle to see how you can be safe. But fix your attention on Jesus, and you’ll fail to see how you can be in danger. Looking inside yourself, you might anticipate harshness from heaven; looking to Christ, you can expect only gentleness. Your burden qualifies you to come to Jesus; you don’t need to unburden or collect yourself first. His ways are not our ways, and even the most intense human love is but a faint echo of heaven’s cascading abundance.
A Heart of Mercy
When you come to Christ in anguish, perplexity, or sinfulness, you’re aligning with his deepest wishes, not working against them. It takes time and experience to believe that God’s heart is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger.” But as you look to Jesus, you’ll discover a love that’s unlike anything you’ve known before – a love that deals gently with you, no matter what.
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