Gentle & Lowly- His Very Heart
This sermon introduces our new series based on "Gentle and Lowly" by Dane Ortlund; a book focusing on Jesus' heart for sinners and sufferers. Drawing from Matthew 11:29, George drew attention to an important truth: Jesus describes himself as "gentle and lowly" – the only direct description of his heart in all four Gospels. It emphasizes Jesus' compassion and accessibility - an "access all areas pass" to His presence for those who need Him most. George encouraged believers to lay down their burdens and accept Jesus' invitation to rest, reminding everyone of his constant presence and support for those who labour and are heavy laden. The sermon concluded with a gentle challenge to invite Jesus more fully into our lives, experience His peace, and share His love with others, underscoring the transformative power of His gentle and lowly heart.
Watch/listen to the service again.
Five-day Devotional Material to accompany the first in this sermon series
Day 1: Understanding the Heart of Jesus
Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30
Reflection: Jesus describes his heart as gentle and lowly. This is the heart of who he is—and the heart is his motivation headquarters. Reflect on what it means for Jesus to be gentle and lowly in heart. How does this understanding of Jesus change the way you approach him with your burdens?
Action: Spend some time today in quiet reflection, considering any burdens you are carrying. Write them down and consciously offer them to Jesus, trusting in his gentle and lowly heart to give you rest.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for your gentle and humble heart. Help me to come to you with my burdens and find rest in your presence. Teach me to trust in your love and care for me. Amen.
Day 2: Jesus' Compassion for the Broken
Scripture: Matthew 9:36
Reflection: Jesus' heart is full of compassion for those who are broken and in need. He sees beyond the surface and understands our deepest struggles. How does knowing Jesus' compassion for you change your perspective on your own struggles?
Action: Identify someone in your life who may be feeling harassed or helpless. How can you reflect the compassion of Jesus by reaching out to them with a word of encouragement or a simple act of kindness?
Prayer: Compassionate Savior, thank you for seeing me in my brokenness and loving me still. Help me to extend your compassion to others, that they may know your love through my actions. Amen.
Day 3: The Invitation to Rest
Scripture: Hebrews 4:9-10
Reflection: Jesus invites us to enter His rest, a rest that is not about ceasing activity but about finding peace and fulfillment in him. What areas of your life feel restless or burdened? How can you invite Jesus into those areas?
Action: Set aside time today to rest in God's presence, even just for a few minutes. Whether through prayer, reading Scripture, or simply being still (Psalm 46:10), allow yourself to experience the peace that comes from resting in him.
Prayer: Lord, I long for the rest that only you can provide. Help me to lay down my striving and find peace in your presence. Teach me to trust in your provision and care. Amen.
Day 4: Jesus' Transformative Power
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17
Reflection: Jesus has the power to transform our hearts and lives, making us new creations in Him. Reflect on areas of your life where you have already seen transformation. How can you open your heart and life furtherto Jesus' renewing work?
Action: Identify one area of your life where you know you need to see transformation. Pray specifically for Jesus to work in that area, and take a practical step towards change, trusting in His power to renew you.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for making me a new creation in you. I invite you to work in my heart and life, bringing about the change I need to become more like you. Amen.
Day 5: Living Out Jesus' Heart
Scripture: Colossians 3:12
"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."
Reflection: As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect his heart to the world and to shine brightly as his people. This is made possible as we 'clothe [ourselves] with Christ' (Romans 13:14).
Action: Choose one of the qualities listed in Colossians 3:12 to focus on today. Make a conscious effort to embody that quality in your interactions, asking Jesus to help you reflect his heart.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing me and loving me. Help me to clothe myself with the qualities of Jesus, that I may reflect his heart to those around me. Guide me in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Amen.
