Today's verse reminds us of two profound virtues we should strive to embody: humility and gentleness.

In a world that promotes self-assertion, it may seem strange to be asked to display qualities such as these. Society often values confidence, boldness, and winning at all costs. However, the scripture reading invites us to adopt a different stance, one that is countercultural and seemingly paradoxical. Humility and gentleness aren't signs of weakness. They are attributes of strength. It requires great strength and courage to lower ourselves for the benefit of others, to choose love over ego, and to serve others rather than seeking to be served.

When we're gentle, we show others that we respect them and value them. When we're humble, we acknowledge God as the ultimate source of our gifts and talents. Let us also remember that gentleness and humility do not mean that we become passive or that we accept wrong practices. No, they empower us to stand firm on God's truth but with a heart filled with love and meekness, displaying the character of Jesus who was gentle and lowly in heart.