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Tuesday, September 07, 2004
He sat down. The traditional way a rabbi would let everyone know he was officially teaching. Jesus was giving his call to revolution.
The poor in spirit are blessed. Those who understand their spiritual bankruptcy.
The mourners are blessed. Those who grieve because of their bankruptcy.
The gentle are blessed. Those who have their strength under control.
The hungry and thirsty for righteousness are blessed. Those who desire a way of living that honors God.
The merciful will be blessed. Those who don't give others what they deserve.
The pure in heart will be blessed. Those whose mind and heart right.
The peacemakers will be blessed. Those who have a desire to help those at war with God come to peace with God.
The persecuted and slandered will be blessed. Those that pay a price from outsiders because of their walk with Christ.
The outlaws on the hillside wouldn't have wanted to hear these things. That being "blessed" might actually mean being at "peace with God" and that Jesus' call to overthrow the government might sound a bit too personal...that maybe Jesus was calling on a revolution of people's hearts and minds.
To think about today: Are the qualities Jesus said would cause us to be blessed part of your life? Which ones are more prominent than others? Which ones seem most unappealing?
Journal prompt for today: Do you think mankind can really comprehend spiritual bankruptcy and truly mourn because of it? Why or why not?
Brent 4:01 AM
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