Jesus. Matthew 5:5. Hi, it’s Nathan, and this is Day 4 of 30 Days on the Mount of Blessing.
One line after another, Jesus continues to stun his listeners. We are NOT expecting this. Probably goes without saying, but Jesus isn’t making a good campaign speech. He most certainly won’t get elected to office. This is hard stuff. But healing stuff. Our hearts are swept-up in self-promotion, yet the kingdom Jesus is building runs the opposite direction—abandoning self for the benefit of all others. This kingdom builds meek people. People who hold power gently, people decidedly un-consumed with self. People who leverage their resources to lift up others with no thought of advancing personal status, increased bank balances or a cadre of admirers. For these, power is a tool for good, not personal gain. It is not a bragging right, but an expanded capacity to serve. Incidentally—or maybe not—these folks actually enjoy a more satisfying life—less worry, less anxiety, more joy.
