“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves” (Matthew 11:29).  

The major theme for this 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time focuses on our Christian virtue of “meekness,” that we should practice it in our daily life, following Jesus’ invitation and example. The word “meek” comes from an old English word “meke” or “meoc,” which means “soft” or “mild” or “not easily provoked.” It is a balance between the excessive outrage, uncontrollable anger, and complete indifference and insensitivity. Therefore, meekness means: (1) humbleness, patience, or docility, (2) submissiveness or compliance; tameness, (3) gentleness; kindness.

Theologically speaking, “meekness” is a virtue of righteousness, humbleness, teachableness, a disposition to be patient, to endure long-suffering for righteousness, the openness to God, or the willingness to follow the Gospel teachings, which is an attribute of a true discipleship. Those lacking in meekness are so convinced of their own self-sufficiency, superiority, and knowledge that they are incapable of being taught.

Without meekness, discipleship is not possible. Therefore, only the meek person, who recognizes the reality of his sinfulness and needy conditions before God, is receptive to His healing forgiveness and guidance. For this reason, “meekness” is an appropriate term for describing Israel’s long-awaited Messiah, as well as the heart and mind of Jesus Christ.

God does not want us holding a relationship of Transaction but Transformation. Therefore, Dynamic Christian disciples are those who (1) BELIEVE, (2) GROW, (3) SERVE, (4) LOVE and (5) LEAD others to Jesus. Today’s topic invites us to practice the Christian virtue of meekness, to follow Jesus Christ more closely, to repent our sins, to exercise our Christian stewardship, to use our time, treasure, and talents to love God above all and to love our neighbors as ourselves, participating in the works of mercy, to accomplish God’s will in our lives to glorify God.  

How can we help each other practice meekness, imitate, and rely on Christ’s strength through the Holy Spirit?

Wishing everyone a blessed week in the Lord.