Matthew 5:1-6
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” vs. 5
In the context of today’s political climate and the general trend of culture this word of Jesus to his disciples seems more of a joke than anything else. A glance at the dictionary tells us that the meek are submissive and unassuming, willing to put up with injury, and unwilling to speak up or offer any kind of resistance. In our world the meek aren’t even noticed…instead the bold and brash get the headlines…and in the process, get their way. Even some Christians express admiration for bullying politicians and domineering tactics. The meek are pushed aside and their voices drowned out. What in the world could Jesus have been thinking of? Yet those who have taken him at his word through the centuries have discovered the strength that is inherent in meekness. Paul told the Philippians, “let your gentleness be known to all,” and the word he used is the one used by Jesus. Those who take the Jesus walk to heart understand the power of a gentle spirit and know that it’s the only way to touch hurting souls. Gentleness is a gift of the Spirit and is our main weapon against the forces of sin and evil in our world. Jesus wasn’t being ironic when he offered blessings to the meek–and he wasn’t joking. It’s the gentle among us who are the true hope of humanity!
Thought for the Day: Why does our culture devalue meekness?
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