Meekness in the City
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. ~ Matthew 5:5
As Columbia students, we are constantly taught to rely on our own strength to achieve our goals. Even more so, New York City itself is known as a place of challenge, competition, and individualism. Many say, “If you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.” However, Jesus says in the Sermon on the Mount, “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” So what does meekness actually mean?
Jesus uses the Greek word “praus,” which means mildness of disposition, gentleness of spirit, and meekness. This image of meekness is not a lack of strength or confidence; it describes those who possess strength but choose to walk in humility, patience, and gentleness. Through meekness, we as believers are called to trust in Almighty God instead of being driven by our personal anxiety. Meek individuals do not ignore challenges but face them with a commitment to being rooted in the humble image of Jesus above personal strength.
This is a different kind of power—one that is not preoccupied with climbing the corporate ladder by any means necessary or resorting to anger when there are slow tourists in front of them on 5th Avenue. Meekness is radically against our sinful nature. It requires us to turn away from our own agendas, emotions, and pride, and to turn toward trusting in the Lord as the way maker. The meek view difficult circumstances with a deep understanding that, regardless of what they are presented with, God has total control.
Jesus notes that the meek do not go unnoticed; in fact, “they will inherit the earth.” This challenges the New York hustle mentality. This inheritance is not in the form of financial investments or vacation homes. This inheritance is one of true riches—a life of peace, love, and gratitude that transcends life on earth.
With this radically different use of strength, what does this mean for us as Columbia students in NYC? How do we form ourselves out of the ways of the world and into the image of Jesus’ meekness? Through constantly turning to Him, relinquishing control, finding gratitude in our weakness, and trusting in His plans, we can draw nearer to Jesus and to how He calls us to live.
Sophia Bediako-Maier is a senior at Columbia University double majoring in Film and Religion. She has a passion for using storytelling to spread the gospel and love of Jesus.