gentleness

Have you noticed the words that often surround a young baby? In hushed tones you might hear… Be careful. When you hold her, make sure that you support her head. Give him a gentle rock or pat… that will soothe him. Generally speaking, something softens in us when a baby is near. The baby’s needs become the higher priority… and our ‘gentle’ side comes out, revealed in our soft tone of voice, words and actions. 

Why do you think this happens? I think it has a lot to do with the baby’s need to feel loved, safe and nurtured… (Of course, this is easier some days than others. Even the most resilient of parents/ caregivers can be tested when they are sleep deprived and the baby won’t settle.) Who can we look to for help?

There are many words one can use to describe God. Strong and powerful of course, but also loving, caring and even gentle. Isaiah describes his nature using the image of a Good Shepherd.

He takes care of his flock like a shepherd. He gathers the lambs in his arms. He carries them close to his heart. He gently leads those that have little ones. Isaiah 40:11

Those under his care experience his love, safety, nurture… and gentleness.

How does this help in our relationships with others? We can pass on his gentleness, the way he treats us, to others!

Words spoken in aggression and anger can be destructive, intimidating and cause one to shrink inside. While gentle and sincere words of encouragement can plant a seed that grows and flourishes into something healthy and life giving.  

Can you recall gentle words of encouragement that someone invested in you? And the effect it had in your life? 

Perhaps you could offer some gentle words, or actions, of encouragement to someone today… Think friends, relatives, teachers, the person at the checkout! You never know who might really need to hear them right now! 

God bless and equip you with everything you need!

Georgie Schuster

KAPS Youth Event- 3 more sleeps to go!

Are you looking for an opportunity for young people to connect and get to know each other? One of the aims for this KAPS (Kids and Parents) event is to provide an opportunity for children and parents to connect with each other from our community (church and school). Join us for bingo and a scavenger hunt based on the Fruit of the Spirit.  While the first part of the afternoon is for students/ parents in Years 4-7, the Worship and dinner is open to all family members. When? June 26th, 4-6:30pm.  Where? Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (enter via the main door facing Montague Road.) For more details you can check out the flier below (there are paper copies in the front office), contact Rachel on 0475 582 289 or see Georgie.