Blessed are the Meek

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Matt 5:5

Father,

This verse has always been a challenge for me to understand. First of all, I know that meekness does not mean weakness. Jesus was meek, but at the same time was willing to stand up to the arrogant and to those who used their power to oppress the poor and the outcasts. He was tough enough to endure persecution and brave enough to face resolutely what he knew lay ahead of him. Yet he did not use his power to defend himself, and he was gentle and compassionate with the downcast and outcast.

So, I get that - but then what about the part of inheriting the earth. In all of this I conclude that Jesus was the first fruit of resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20) and that we shall be like him (I Corinthians 15:49 and I John 3:2) and that we will appear with Him in glory (Colossians 3:4) and that when He comes there will come with him a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1 and II Peter 3:13) and therefore the meek (Jesus as the firstfruit) will inherit the new heaven and new earth.

Father, from all of that, my prayer is that by your Spirit, you grow in these children a quiet strength. A strength that is not self seeking, but a strength that will stand against injustice. I strength that does not impose its own will, but a strength that faithfully fulfills obligations and mission. A strength that does not oppress, but a strength that protects and defends.

I pray that you instill in them a strong and steady gift of leadership based on the meekness of Jesus.

Amen