“Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth.” This is one of the statements attributed to Jesus, grouped with other similar remarks and called the “Beatitudes” (or Blessingness-es). Is this a statement of fact or is it merely aspirational? Or perhaps a third alternative–something strategic and programmatic?

Looking around, the meek do not seem to wield much power and have not inherited the earth. Why? Is it that nice persons actually do finish last? Or does someone need to die for there to be an inheritance? Or… is there something more about meekness yet to be seriously considered?

Today marks the day for remembering Saint Nicephorous. There is one line in Butler’s writings that strikes me powerfully–he describes Nicephorus’ “invincible meekness and patience” that “stemmed the tide of iniquity.” Imagine: a meekness that is invincible! That nothing can stand up against, not even iniquity!

What does such meekness look or feel like? How is it expressed and how is it experienced? This much I know–this kind of meekness does not equate to powerlessness–quite the opposite, if it is both invincible and leads to taking hold of the earth!

It is a massive test, not only of faith but also of creativity. It takes an astounding confidence and commitment to choose meekness as a campaign to take over the world, as a means of facing down evil, as a way of moving forward in the world.

Let’s get the wheels turning? Ideas?!