It is not news to anyone that our world and country are dealing with conflict in all facets of life. All of our senses are being inundated with calls for confrontation instead of pleas for peace. As a whole, our thought process has become skewed when it comes to dealing with things we do not understand or do not agree with. The world is in need of true rest and a Shepherd. Leading up to The Sermon On The Mount, we see Jesus proclaiming His message. He is teaching truth, healing physical, emotional, and spiritual infirmities. Jesus’ combined ministry met people’s physical needs while transforming their heart. Matthew 5:1-12 begins with Jesus opening His mouth and teaching the keys to true success with an eternal focus.
And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then 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 filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain 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 they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
As we follow Christ, may we look at His example, draw those around us to reconciliation and not rebellion. In all our ways, may it be said when we seek Christ, we know peace. A better way exists. Christ is leading the way, may we follow!
