This was a tough week. Finding the energy to get out of bed was nearly impossible. I dragged my way through the social events of the weekend, and even avoided writing this post. So many times this week I heard friends and family confess their burdens. Hearing my own rushing through my mind was like coming up for air without catching my breath. It was a lot.
Safe to say I crammed through the next seven chapters in the book of Matthew. First we read about the birth of Jesus and the warnings that led his family to move him around. Eventually, landing them in Nazareth. We meet John the Baptist in chapter 3, only to quickly realize that Jesus has grown up and asked to be baptized. After going through the trials of temptation, he begins to preach and gathers up boys for his band–of disciples.
The first recorded sermon in this gospel is the Sermon on the Mount. I love it because we can immediately notice that Jesus has a heart for the burdened. In verses 3-12 he promises blessing for the poor in spirit; those who mourn; the meek; those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Also for the merciful, pure in heart, and peacemakers.
Our Posture Matters
When it comes to knowing Jesus, our posture matters. And the more our character looks like him, the closer we are to God and his kingdom. As I read these versus again, it is almost like a progression of our standard of conduct. In verse 3, Jesus tells us we are blessed by God when we are poor in spirit. It reminds me of how many of us come to God; we are at low points in our lives, and we find ourselves crying out for help.
Then we go through life and face challenges of many kinds. Our spirit may mourn, but Jesus promised comfort in this season. Moving down to verse 7 we read that mercy will be shown to those who are merciful. It reminds me that as we overcome obstacles, we gain mercy towards others that may be facing the same thing. Then we go through a maturing of our faith, which is where I see verses 11-12 closing out this message. Jesus said we would be blessed when people insult or persecute us because of him, and would serve as evidence of our faithfulness.
Do Not Be Like Them
Jesus also knew who was genuine. He taught on many topics from anger and revenge, to lust, divorce, and even loving our enemies. There was a standard and then there was an example of what not to follow. For instance, Jesus taught us to pray, but not like the hypocrites that pray to be seen. He taught us to give to the needy, but not like those who announce it as to be honored by those who are watching. Then he went on to address internal matters like worry. In Matthew 6:30 he calls us out. We worry about things like what we will eat or drink, but forget that God sees even the grass of the field and clothes them.
Foundation
The crowds listened to Jesus and were amazed. I cannot begin to imagine the scene, and what I would do if I recognized who was speaking at that moment. But Jesus taught for more than just sharing pretty words. He told us to put it into practice; that wisdom comes to those who listen to his words and follow his instruction. Not rain nor winds could come to beat against us if our foundation is built on the rock–that is Jesus. As I reflect back on this week, I realize that the challenges we face are there to grow our faith. Even when I feel downcast, I can remember that God is near. I can find comfort in the words of Jesus that blessed are the poor in spirit.
Living Thirty Three 