As Jesus is the cornerstone upon which the Church is built, so are his teachings the unifying cornerstone of Christian doctrine.

The puzzle of meekness

Why does Jesus in Matthew 5:1-12 promote meekness? The opposite of meekness is self-importance. Pride fights and creates strife whereas humility makes peace. Arrogance seeks vengeance while meekness forgives. Ego boasts great things, but purity is unpretentious. Impatience makes enemies, while forbearing creates friends. Antagonism creates hard feelings while mutual submission creates trust. Hardheadedness makes life difficult, whereas a pliant spirit smooths the way. Combative personalities are bad company, while affable hearts are welcome. Inheriting the land can be a metaphor for God’s provision to Israel. Who is more likely to be given a job or considered for a promotion, the arrogant misfit or the humble team player? Humility is a great secret of the universe that is ignored by the proud to their own hurt. Surely, the meek are blessed and inherit all the good things of life.

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