March 19, 2004	Read Matthew 5: 5
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
GOD’S IN CHARGE Many of us have looked from the shoreline of an ocean at the incoming waves.  With a power that can defy understanding, the crests come relentlessly from a distant horizon, one after another.  If the coast is rocky, the power of their crashing can be felt and heard; you can taste the salt spray.  Whenever I have been in such a place, the power of the sea has made me meek.  I am humble when facing God’s ocean. Though the waters are strong, God has made it possible for us to be in his sea.  I’ve plowed safely through these waves in many ships and enjoyed the views that come only from the water.  I’ve been SCUBA diving 100 feet under the surface on coral reefs with clouds of rainbow fish.  And I stay humble on or in God’s sea. Jesus was teaching “blessed are they who accept God’s guidance.”  Another meaning could be:  “God, I accept that you are in charge.”  Meekness suggests humility before God. As you kneel meekly to receive Communion, look up at the cross behind our altar and celebrate the Good News it represents.  Jesus gave his life so we can be forgiven for our sins. Jesus also teaches:  Blessed is the one who has great strength, but who chooses to use it gently.  Jesus does not salute those with unbending pride.  Those loud voices may lead the parade, but the quiet ones who come along catch God’s eye. Meekness is having confidence that, no matter what happens, you can accept God’s guidance.  Meekness means knowing God is always in charge. Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm has bounced the restless wave; who bade the mighty ocean deep, its own appointed limits keep.  Oh, hear us when we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea. TOM CRONK

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