Meekness, together with humility, is the distinctive mark of true Christians and deeply pious people. Our Lord Jesus Christ chose to present Himself to us as the model of these two virtues: "Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart" (Mt 11:29).
Meekness is neither weakness nor cowardice. It is the virtue that keeps the soul serene and self-possessed, even amidst offenses, contradictions, and suffering. The true Christian knows how to defend the truth and fulfill his duty with firmness, yet without hatred, inner violence, or a desire for revenge.
The serenity characteristic of meekness accompanies Christians even in martyrdom. We see this admirably in Saint Stephen, who, while being stoned, prayed for his executioners: "Lord, do not hold this sin against them" (Acts 7:60). In this way, the disciple imitates his Master, who said from the Cross: "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Lk 23:34).
Meekness, united with humility, causes the soul to become increasingly like Jesus Christ and enables it to remain at peace even during the greatest trials. That is why the Lord said: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth" (Mt 5:5).
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