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Zechariah prophesied that the Messiah would enter Jerusalem "meek, and riding on an ass, on a colt" (Zec 9:9). Jesus continues to invite us: "Learn from Me, for I am meek and humble of heart" (Mt 11:29, our transl). Jesus promises: "Blessed are the meek; they shall inherit the earth" (Mt 5:5, RSV-CE). The Greek word translated "meek" is sometimes translated "gentle," "lowly," and "mild." Meekness is not weakness. In fact, it is strength. The meek are so strong that they overcome the temptations to be manipulative, controlling, or defensive. The meek do not try to get us to do their will but God's will. The Lord reveals Himself to the meek (see Mt 11:25), gives them the land as their inheritance (Mt 5:5), and gives them rest (Mt 11:29). Nevertheless, despite the greatness and graces of meekness, we naturally want to be arrogant, not meek. We choose meekness because Jesus is meek, and we are His followers. We become meek through the Holy Spirit, for meekness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). It can be produced only by the Holy Spirit. Seek meekness. |
