“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
“God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”
Matthew 5:3-12
“God bless you!” We say these words very often and, at times, for very different reasons! As you slowly reflect on these opening words of Jesus’ moutainside message, allow them to sink in before moving to the next sentence.
As you hear or read this message, do you identify some of the passages as reflecting your experience? Are there other parts that you wish you would deminstrate more in your life?
Take a moment or two over the next seven days to say aloud one of these statements. Commit it to memory, and discuss it with God throughout the week.
Food for Thought 