Blessed

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:7-10)

When we think of all the evil done to the innocent in our society, do our thoughts dwell on mercy for the ‘evil-doers’? Let’s be honest with ourselves for a moment. We are tired of this evil. We want justice and peace. So, naturally, we believe that evil should be met with equal and opposite strength and violence.

Unfortunately, peace through violence has its limitations. Jesus gives us this beautiful sermon for a reason. He shows us how true peace is achieved and maintained through relationships. Mercy is a useless attitude if it is not put into action. And mercy is rather foolish if not accompanied by love and relationship.

Think about it for a moment. Our attitude about misbehaving kids is a little different depending on our relationship with the child. If its ‘one of our own’ we want to correct him, because we love him. If he’s not ‘one of our own’ we just want the problem gone. In God’s point of view, every child belongs. Blessed are those who have mercy on God’s child. Blessed is the one with God’s own heart. Blessed is the one who makes peace among God’s own.

Doing these things might put us in the middle of an “us vs. them” battle. Don’t be afraid. Blessed are those who are persecuted for the ‘sake of God’s righteousness.’ May we continue to build relationships in our communities. We are all God’s beloved children after all.

See you Sunday!
Missy