The Agony of Gentleness

When we are harmed by others, it is our natural instinct to harm in return. It is not normal human behavior to leap for joy when falsely accused, to turn the other cheek when struck, to carry an unjust load an extra mile, or to be gentle when treated harshly. But the great secret of strength in the kingdom of Heaven is found in this "opposite" behavior. When the Christian gives gentleness and mercy in response to rude, fleshly taunts and scorn, the kingdom advances and the person of Jesus Christ is made evident in this earth.