We have arrived at one of the most precious sections of the New Testament, “The Sermon on the Mount”. I love reading Jesus’ words because they flow from one thought to the other guiding us to know how He views us and what are His expectations. The key lessons in the Sermon are found in the Beatitudes which basically tell us how to be blessed and many times are in direct contrast to how the world wants us to be.
Poor in spirit contrasts with pride and personal achievement, but God’s reward is that we will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
Mourning contrasts with having happiness at all cost, but God’s reward is that He will comfort us.
Meekness contrasts with the desire for power, but God’s reward is that we will inherit the earth.
Thirst for Righteousness contrasts with pursuing our own selfish desires, but God’s reward is that He will be the one to fill us with all our needs and we will be satisfied.
Mercy contrasts with the need to show strength without caring for others, but God’s reward is that He will show us mercy.
Pure in Heart contrasts with a desire to deceive in order to get what we want, but God’s reward is that we will truly be able to see and feel God’s presence.
Peacemaker contrasts with our desire for personal peace while shutting out the chaos of the world around us, but God’s reward is that we will be “called sons of God” (daughters implied).
And finally, Persecuted which contrasts with a weak commitment to avoid persecution, but God’s reward is that we will inherit the “kingdom of heaven”.
There is so much promise and so much truth in this sermon. Hearing it directly from Jesus’ mouth allows me to know what is truly important to him and what is expected of me.
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