NOTES for Mat 5:1-12

In one of the Beatitudes there is a word that often raises questions and is misunderstood. This word is "meekness," or more precisely, the adjective formed from it (see Matt. 5:5).

What qualities does a meek person have? How often the image that comes to mind is of some creature huddled in a corner, unable or afraid to open its mouth or show itself in any way... A dictionary gives us this definition of a meek person: submissive, gentle, humble. But the definition "submissive" needs an added clarification: submissive to whom?

But the most important thing Jesus wanted to say, it seems, we can understand when we remember that He Himself is "meek and lowly in heart" (Matt. 11:29). And He calls us to learn this meekness and humility from Him.

To whom, then, and to what is Jesus Christ submissive? We can say only one thing with certainty: He is submissive to the will of the Father. Truly, every person needs an awareness that a "higher principle" exists, and not merely awareness, but living relationship with God. It is precisely under the loving, encouraging, approving gaze of the Father that we can take our first steps and grow spiritually. Even our Lord, having become incarnate, needed a father's support.