27. The meek shall inherit the Earth
Blessed are the meek, they shall inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5
The Congregation, furthermore, tries to express its spirit in five virtues drawn from its own special way of looking at Christ, namely, simplicity, humility, gentleness, mortification, and zeal for souls. Speaking of these five virtues, Saint Vincent said: ‘The Congregation shall pay special attention to developing and living up to these five virtues so that they may be, as it were, the faculties of the soul of the whole Congregation, and that everything each one of us does may always be inspired by them’ (Common Rules, ii 14).
Constitutions, 7
Saint Vincent was very impressed with the gentleness of Jesus and Saint Francis de Sales. Just as Vincent’s missionary experience convinced him of the necessity of this virtue in ministry, so too, he also saw that this virtue was essential for those entrusted with leadership in the Company as well as for the development of relationships with people during the mission.
1. We Are Dealing with a Lesson from Jesus Christ
‘Learn of me’, says Jesus, ‘to be meek!’ If it were merely a Saint Paul or a Saint Peter, who, speaking of his example, exhorted us to learn meekness of him, we might perhaps excuse ourselves. But my brothers, it is God-made-man who has come to earth to show us the way in which we might become pleasing to his Father. It is the Master of masters who teaches us … what? to be meek. Grant us a share, O Lord, in your great meekness which can refuse nothing. O Savior! how happy were they who had the experience of drawing close to you. What they witnessed! What meekness, what openness you showed in order to attract them. What confidence you must have inspired in them for them to approach you. O my Savior! What proof of love in your enchanting kindness. What fruit this meekness would produce in the Church1.
2. Meekness, Affability, Cordiality, Sincerity
Like all Vincentian virtues, meekness also has an apostolic value:
Meekness consists of showing great affability, cordiality, and cheerfulness of countenance to those who approach us, so that we may be a consolation to them. Some, by their smile or their friendly greeting, please everyone. God has granted them this grace by giving them cheerful, sweet, amiable dispositions. These individuals seem to offer you their heart and ask yours in return. On the other hand, others present themselves with a sad, stern, and sour visage; that is contrary to meekness. Therefore, my brothers, a true missionary will do well to shape his conduct according to that of the former group, and act in such a way as to impart consolation and confidence to all who approach him2.
3. Torrent or Rivers
Meekness helps us avoid being temperamental—our moods swinging widely, disconcerting ourselves and others:
None are more consistent and firm in doing good than those who are meek and gracious. While, on the contrary, those who allow themselves to give in to anger and the passions of the irascible appetite are usually very inconsistent, because they act only by fits and starts. They are like torrents, which are strong and impetuous in full flood, but which dry up immediately afterwards; while rivers, which represent the gentle and gracious, flow on noiselessly, tranquilly and unfailingly3.
- In a violent environment, more or less intensified by words, gestures, and the defense of one’s own opinions, has meekness checked my roughness?
- Am I one who prefers conflict, noise and laughter over calmness, tranquility and quiet?
Prayer:
O my Savior, how can we see you practice meekness toward the most guilty and not become meek ourselves? Shall we not be moved by your example and teaching? Lamb of God, you who take away the sins of the world, remake us in your image. We pray in your name Lord Jesus, who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.