When asked, "Hey John, what is you favorite all-time movie?" Without difficulty I reply, “Lord of the Rings.” The power of story, depth of acting and immersive cinematography here is simply unmatched in my estimation. The Trilogy combines to over ten hours and all of that without a sex scene or any profanity. Amen! My kudos to Director Peter Jackson and New Line Cinema for their allegiance to adapting J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation to cinema without folding in modern and popular offensive elements.
What conditions in Tolkien’s life shaped his worldview? The world wars he witnessed? Being raised by a priest to be a devout Catholic surely influenced his writing and its emphasis on good versus evil. I’m convinced Tolkien wanted his readers to realize how good triumphs. I believe he wanted us to grasp one exceptional trait. This one personality trait is elusive to find today. In fact, the name of this characteristic is completely missing in modern print and never heard in dialogue. Therefore, it rules over words like: courage, bravery, loyalty, friendship and hope.
This rarest of attributes is meekness. When was the last time you read or you heard the word “meek” used? Not even preachers give the word much attention (which speaks volumes). The biblical definition of meekness is beautifully uncomplicated. The Greek word “praus” simply means a gentle and humble attitude that expresses itself in submissiveness. It is power divinely controlled. It is the opposite of pride and the absence of malice. In 2 Corinthians 10:1-4 the Apostle lays out the potency of this trait, “By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” when away. . . For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
In the Lord of the Rings it is diminutive Hobbits who destroy the strongholds. All full size characters in the story cannot wear the ring without swiftly succumbing to its evil influence. It is Frodo Baggins who bears the burden of carrying the ring to its fate. This “halfling” and his loyal servant, Samwise Gamgee, possess one quality the other admirable characters do not. The one quality which insulates them from the ring’s demonic influence? They are meek. Jesus made clear the greatest heroes in His kingdom posses humility.
God has fixed a principle in our world, a law of life that is immutable – humility is non-optional if you want His blessings. Jesus said of Himself, “I am gentle and humble in heart.” An infant born in a cattle stall reveals the meekness of Jesus. Quietly submitting to His Father’s will as they try, beat and murder Him reveals the meekness of Jesus. From beginning to end Christ demonstrated the power this beatitude holds over evil.
Father, thank You for reminding us that our weakness is not having meekness. May we brave the obstacles ahead knowing that we have been offered the most potent weapons in spiritual warfare – a humble spirit and a courageous faith. Help us humbly carry upon our necks the Master’s yoke, which is easy and light. And one day if You count us faithful in the tasks You’ve assigned, give us rest for our souls. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Blessings,
John <><
