The teaching of Jesus called the Beatitudes begins the Sermon on the Mount and are found in the opening verses of Matthew chapter 5. The word “beatitude” means a blessing that produces well-being. A blessing comes from God and is to be gratefully received and generously shared. A focus on the Beatitudes is an opportunity to align our lives with Christ’s intentions for his disciples.

The first Beatitude of Jesus goes like this, Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Those who are poor in spirit are those who understand their need for God. It generally does not take long on this earthly journey to realize we need help. Much is out of our control. Suffering and adversity are part and parcel of the human condition. We need help from God, who forgives, heals, encourages, strengthens, and comforts. God does not rescue us from trouble but is with us to see us through. The sooner we learn that the better!

A good way to foster that sense of need for God is to be grateful. A daily practice of counting our blessings reminds us that God is the source of all that is good and that we cannot make it without God’s graceful presence. Disciples who are grateful find themselves in the right spirit to be welcomed into the kingdom of heaven, that is life with God characterized by forgiveness, abundance, and partnership with God now and forever.

Wise disciples of Christ acknowledge their need for God and give thanks for God’s faithfulness.

May you be blessed,

Marc