The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
Adapted from The Message by Eugene H. Peterson - November 5, 2006
What Jesus taught about God and about God's beloved community made people feel hopeful. His kind touch and his prayers made people who were sick or disabled or left out feel better. Pretty soon, huge crowds began to gather wherever Jesus was teaching or healing.
One day Jesus climbed a hillside in order to be seen and heard by the large crowd that had formed around him. He got to a quiet place and sat down. Those who were following him sat down, too. They waited eagerly for what he would say and do. This is what he said that day:
'You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you feel like you've reached your limit. With less of you, there is more room for God.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Then, God will give you a hug.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you're satisfied being just who are you are - no more, no less. That's the moment when you realize that the best things in life can't be bought.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you've worked up a good appetite for God. God's love will feel like the best meal you'll ever eat.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you show kindness to others. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you get your mind and heart put right. Then you can see where God is everywhere around you.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when you can show people how to cooperate instead of fight with each other. That's when you discover your place in God's family.
"You are so lucky - you are blessed! - when people give you a hard time for loving God and for doing what God wants. Their teasing will draw you even deeper into God's beloved community.
"Not only that - count yourselves blessed every single time people put you down or leave you out or say bad things about you in order to make others doubt my teachings. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens - you can even give a cheer! - for although they don't like it, I really do! And all heaven applauds you! Remember: you are in good company. Everyone who has ever spoken God's truth has always gotten into trouble."
Questions to ponder:
I wonder what God's hug feels like?
I wonder what you would say are the best things in life?
I wonder how being loved can feel like a good meal you've just eaten?
I wonder how you show kindness to others?
I wonder where you see God in the world around you?
I wonder what peace feels like?