Actually, Jesus was quoting the Psalm 37:11, "But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance or peace." In Hebrew, the translation of 'meek' is 'to be molded'. The following verses in Psalms talks about the characteristics of the wicked, what they inherit, and what eventually happens to them. The Psalmist goes on talking about the characteristics of the good man, and what eventually happens to him.
In the Beatitudes, meek is translated as 'praos', meaning submission to the will of God. There is a natural order of things in God's creation, and we can be aware and act within that order; or we can, through God given free will, reject it. You can read all of Psalm 37, and see the distinctions. These verses are the foundation of what Jesus said in the Beatitudes.
You can put money, power, sex, try and control and dominate, and put yourself first; or love and care about God, family, and friends first.
We can submit to the will of God, and even though we don't understand what's going on, know that it's the very best thing for us and our loved ones, and do good. Be meek, be the clay that God forms.
Psalm 24 says "The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters."
This is the Lord's earth Jesus talks about that we inherit. Let me be the clay in the Potter's hands.
1 comment:
very nicely put, thank you
Post a Comment