“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5).
This is a radical and countercultural teaching especially in today’s context where many of us are so easily offended.
Our culture might say something like, “Blessed are the ones who stand up for themselves and fight for vindication, for they will rule the earth.”
The shocking incident of “the slap” at the Academy Awards demonstrated our tendency to react immediately when we are offended. However, the bible teaches that, “Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city” (Proverbs 16:32).
Some people say this kind of thinking represents weakness, but meekness is not weakness. Weakness is when you cannot do anything about a situation; meekness is when you choose to respond differently than the world might expect — with grace and love.
Jesus embodied this life of meekness. As the most powerful being in the universe, he could have lived a life of brutal force, but he chose meekness because his way of defeating sin and death was marked by grace and love. His weapon of choice was not a slap, piercing words, or an oppressive force; his weapons were countercultural love and perfect justice. Jesus says, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jesus is saying, “Learn from me; I am gentle (meek).”
In a sin-marred world where our attitude of being easily offended and our fight for vindication cause us to pollute this world with more violence and injustice, I pray that our city will be filled with people choosing meekness as a way of life.
Jesus demonstrated that there is great strength in meekness. I challenge you to consider this way of radical love, forgiveness, humility, and grace. This is how you conquer the burden of sin and death, and become free to enjoy true rest for your soul.
