Posts Tagged ‘Matthew 5:5’

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Br. Luke Ditewig

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)

In the seventh century, Aidan, a monk on Iona in Scotland, was sent to establish a monastery on Lindisfarne in northern England. Like Columba who led much missionary work out from Iona, Aidan led great evangelism from Lindisfarne.

Aidan sent monks out, two by two, into the neighboring villages and countryside. He gave two noteworthy instructions: First, travel on foot, not horseback. Second, do not carry a knife or any sort of weapon for defense. Travel then was very dangerous, so this was remarkable.

Aidan instructed ways to live like Jesus, not simply speak about Jesus. Walking instead of riding, they went like their neighbors, as equals instead of with additional power and privilege. Without weapons to fight, they resisted violence with vulnerability. Aidan and the monks embodied the gospel, and they were well received. Offered humbly and meekly, good news spread quickly. Read More