Love God Greatly: BeatitudesSample

"Meek" is not a synonym for "wallflower," "doormat," or "pushover." In a world that praises the powerful and rewards aggression and unbridled ambition, it is easy to see why "meek" has gotten such a bad reputation. Jesus often makes promises to the weak and powerless, and here He is instead promising that the gentle and humble will receive rewards in eternity that they were denied on earth. Just as Jesus promised an inheritance to the poor in spirit in Matthew 5:3, in today's reading, He promises an inheritance to those who refuse to gain power or possessions by exploiting other people and hoarding resources. 

It can be easy not to see ourselves in this description of worldly power. Yet many of us have significant influence over other people and more resources than the poor among us. Jesus' promise applies to all of us: the humble who willingly give up worldly power, and the gentle who use their resources to serve others will inherit the earth. 

Lord, give me the strength and conviction to serve others instead of myself, to give up the things I could hold onto tightly, and to treat others with kindness and gentleness. Thank You for the influence and resources You have given me. Teach me to use them well.