Today’s scripture: Matthew 5:1-6 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
Whenever I read this scripture, I always think of a huge rally for a winning team. (Believe me, I wish right now I could say it reminded me of the rally for our 2010 Superbowl winning Colts — but alas, that is another dream down the proverbial drain!) What I mean to say is that Jesus has been drawing big crowds wherever he goes. They are all following him because of the great miracles and works of healing he is performing! They are starting to believe in the “power” of Jesus. Today we find him taking a high position and the disciples settling in for some more great stuff!
Instead of great miracles, though, now what follows is some hard truth. Jesus starts to tell the disciples how it really is rather than simply giving them what want. What Jesus says is a bit hard to hear. Jesus seems to be saying those on the margins, the poor in spirit, the mourners, the meek, are the ones who will be blessed. It isn’t those with might who really bring the kingdom of heaven to earth. It is those the world least expects.
I think of Mother Theresa. What an unassuming, humble lady, yet the kingdom of God was made manifest on the earth through her many times over. I think of Gandhi and his meek appearance and humble spirit and how he brought the kingdom of God a bit closer to this earth. I think of children like Ryan White, Anne Frank, and Ruby Bridges, who in the power of their truth advanced the kingdom of God on this world.
Sometimes the real world changers are the most unexpected!
Thought for the day: Am I a life changer? Am I practicing a humble spirit? Do I look for those marginalized and unexpected voices to guide my actions and spirit?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.