Over the next two weeks, we will be using the Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew as our focus. The Beatitudes, from the Latin word beatus which means blessed, begin what is known as the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). Luke 6 has a similar version.
Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God (Matthew 5:3)
One of the realities of my world is that I see people who are suffering with a poor spirit. Perhaps because of anxiety, health issues, professional concerns, or financial strife, so many of us are struggling with poor spirits. It is not necessarily that folks are always poor in spirit, but periodically they become overwhelmed by the difficulties that are such a natural part of our lives.
Certainly this must have been true in Jesus' time as well. Different reasons, but the same reality. How comforting that Jesus speaks to this first. Reminding us that our poor spirits are met by the promise of the Kingdom. It is easy to assume that our poor spirits are an example of the Kingdom's absence. However, Jesus is saying that it is precisely for our poor spirit experiences that the Kingdom exists!
When we are suffering in anyway, we have the promise of a God who will come near and offer us strength, comfort, and hope. And the kingdom will bring new life. This is the promise with which Jesus begins His sermon. It sets the tone for all that is to come. To know that our difficulties will be lovingly and graciously met by God.
Loving Jesus, continue to remind us to have faith amidst suffering. Amen.
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