Matthew 7:28
“And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes.”
Over the last couple of weeks, we’ve focused on The Beatitudes, introduced to us by Jesus as the “Blesseds.” As He spoke to the crowd, and the Disciples in particular, He turned their thinking upside down. They sat down on the mountain in front of Jesus to learn more about the kingdom of heaven Jesus promised but, rather than receiving a doctrine of social justice or a political “battle plan,” they were given a spiritual one, one that required changed hearts. The Kingdom of Heaven they were expecting was not the picture Jesus was going to paint for them. He painted a picture that embodies the character qualities of God, of what every Christian ought to be, and what He wanted them, and us, to reflect to the world as His disciples:
• Rather than being rich, become poor by recognizing our need for a Savior.
• Rather than being great, become meek and submissive to His will.
• Rather than seeking nourishment from the world, hunger and thirst for righteousness in Jesus.
• Rather than demanding justice, offer mercy.
• Rather than having hard, self-serving hearts, become pure in heart to see God more clearly.
• Rather than starting a rebellion, be a peacemaker through reconciliation.
• Rather than feeling downtrodden by persecution, know that we are blessed for it is for Jesus’ sake and our reward is in the Kingdom of Heaven.
We were reminded that each “blessed” intersects with the next, like an unbroken chain. They are all connected and enjoyed together. The eight qualities describe every Christian and each of the eight blessings is given to every Christian. They are not just blessings, but also responsibilities and privileges bestowed upon us as citizens of God’s kingdom. As children of the King, we have inherited God’s blessed treasure, His eternal Kingdom of Heaven. Congratulations, Saints!
Our eternal God, we praise You for the kingdom You have prepared for us. We thank You that you have provided a way for us to enjoy fellowship with You in that kingdom, through your Son, Jesus. Help us to be faithful to reflect the blesseds to our world, whether it is in our home, neighborhood or beyond. May we honor and glorify You in all our ways, O God. We ask in the name of Jesus, Your blessed Son. Amen.
~ painting by Peace Simon
