All the Blessed Ones

“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

“And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.  Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:1-12

Blessed were they to come near to the Lord Jesus on the mount, and blessed were they to hear His personal words. The covering of His benediction and pledge of blessing to come in their unclear future was a gift for mind and soul in the clear mountain air. For what had they been called to this young traveling teacher? So much before them was unknown. In drawing them up the mountain, Jesus turned their thoughts from the work and life they had known to the higher call and heavenly perspective of following Him as disciples. His promises hinted at aspects of life to come that only He knew.

It is indeed a gift to have the Lord’s omniscient care and particular promises for present and future. What is ours securely now carries us to the unknown. We are fortified with salvation, a sure place in God’s forever kingdom and purposes, and are encouraged to own that knowledge humbly and with pure heart. We are to seek Him and His righteousness and extend mercy and grace as we encounter the sorrows, misunderstandings, and turbulence of day to day. We are to face every pressing hurt and opposition with gladness for the certain coming fruition of hope. We need not worry about the unknown because we are strengthened in the known. Could we be more blessed going forward than to have God’s word? All Christ proclaims and embodies is ours to hold. (2 Corinthians 1:20)

How familiar am I with God’s promises to me? When do I draw near to hear His words, and how personally are they shaping my decisions, character, and resolve? What difference does my pronounced blessedness in Christ make in my outlook and pursuits? Is every aspect of my life characterized by rejoicing because of confident hope? Where do I need set aside worry and complaint and tend to gladness because of God’s good and sure promises? (Ephesians 1:3)

How am I encouraging others with this benediction? Whom has God placed in my life at present who needs to be reminded of their blessedness in Christ? How will I edify the growing, give balm to the hurting, and cheer on the struggling?

Blessed Lord, keep me grateful for and thriving in the blessedness you bestow, trusting every present promise for the future You are writing.