Matthew 5:1-12 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 5:1-12 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 5When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Verse 2Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
Verse 3"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Verse 4"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Verse 5"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Verse 6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Verse 7"Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Verse 8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Verse 9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Verse 10"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Verse 11"Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Verse 12Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Devotion
Jesus came to earth to usher in a new age as described in the Beatitudes. Every blessing he spoke contradicted the way most people experienced life. Even today, this text is a stark contrast to the "lifestyles of the rich and famous" we see on television.
The Hebrew word asheri is translated "blessed" or "happy." Psalm 1 begins with this word: "Happy are those ... (whose) delight is in the law of the Lord." The Hebrew harvest festivals, with their singing and dancing, exemplified the boundless joy this word connotes.
By contrast, the Beatitudes described the marginalized and persecuted. Though ridiculed by society, the eye of the Lord is on them. "Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven." These are the faithful "remnant" who, despite adversity, never lose hope in God's promise. They are the ones who are merciful, seek purity of heart and advocate for peace. This is the "lifestyle of the saints."
Prayer
Lord Jesus, we bless your name for the happiness you promise us. Amen.