Matthew 5:3

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

Through the grace of God alone we are all blessed beyond measure whether we acknowledge it or not. However to understand this grace and what it bestows, let us consider what Jesus tells us about who is blessed in this verse. Let's begin with what he does not say.

Not those who achieve.

Not those who amass wealth.

Not those who are beautiful or athletic.

Not those who work hard- sorry Martha.

Not those who study and are well read.

Not those who know right from wrong.

Not those who who are confident.

When Jesus teaches the disciples, there are many qualities he references, but here in this verse let us look first at what he does not say.

Not those who are generous.

Not those who help others.

Not those who pray.

Not those who worship.

Not those who follow the law and commandments.

Not those who avoid temptation.

Not those who forgive.

These are teachings that we should strive toward but in Matthew 5:3 we are told “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

What Does the Lord Require? Humility

Who is blessed? Those who live in humility. Perhaps they have a clearer view of God’s love because their vision is not clouded by their own will. The kingdom of God is near when we don’t block the view with our own little castles.

If we find ourselves feeling generous because we have given of our money, time, knowledge or love then let us give thanks to God because all that we have shared first came from God.

When we have a humble heart, what we see clearly is that we own nothing and have nothing to share beyond what God has shared with us.

What Does the Lord Require? To be one. When we stop looking to be superior, when we stop looking for differences, when we stop creating barriers, we can start to be one with God and share grace realizing that we given the grace of our Father.

Please pray with me, Father, all that I am and all that I have is your gift. May I always be thankful and share what I have been given with all of your beloved children who I encounter. Not if but when I forget this, please remind me gently so that I may give thanks to You and You alone, Amen.

This devotion was written by Jill Pope and read by Susan Daves.

Grace for All is a daily devotional podcast produced by the members of the congregation of First United Methodist Church in Maryville, Tennessee. With these devotionals, we want to remind listeners on a daily basis of the love and grace that God extends to all human beings, no matter their location, status, or condition in life.

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