Scripture Reading(s)
Matthew 5:1-12d
5:1 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him.
5:2 Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
5:5 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
5:8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
5:10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
5:11 “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
5:12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Reflections
This is one of the most well-known passages in scripture. Recognized as the “beatitudes” they serve a great purpose in giving us insight to living out the Christian life in a profound and deeper way. It gives a perspective in the light of eternity.
All of these attributes that Jesus describes are followed by a reason to be living them. Notice how each reason is pointed to giving Glory to Christ and reflecting Christ. These are things that set us a part from the rest of the world. These are things that give us the privilege to be called Children of God.
Notice also how these are things that are the complete opposite of what society calls for us to be. They are attributes that point to an eternal affect on our lives. Our end reward is spending eternity with our heavenly Father. The end goal in this life is not to live for ourselves or gain as much earthly riches as possible. The goal is to place ourselves under the lens of eternity and live our lives with a joy and hope of one day being with God in heaven.
All these things are not easy to live by. However, you fill find that as you go through them, God has a better plan in mind for the poor, the mourning, the persecuted, those who hunger, and so on. Eternity with our God is a wonderful and glorious hope that we can look forward to one day. Our mourning will be turned to joy, our pain will be no more, and fears will no longer haunt us.