August 11, 2012 A Good List

A Good List Matthew 5:1-12 Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” YOU’VE probably seen these “blessings” on a wall plaque or on a list somewhere. The “beatitudes” or blessings of Jesus are wonderful words to live by as you go through the joys and trials of everyday life. When you realize there is joy out of the mourning, there is strength out of the meekness, there is reward for offering mercy and peace, you can see how good it is to live in the Lord’s ways. To bless someone means to add value to someone’s life. In this list, Jesus adds to your life a view past “right now” to point you to a blessed life with him forever. It’s True! Blessed are those who believe in Jesus.