The BLESSED Life

“I am blessed!” Words that we often hear as we listen to the various people who live with us in the world. From athletes who just won a competition to actors who gain recognition for their ability to portray others.

In the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) Jesus’ opening words consist of 8 statements that begin with the term BLESSED. The Master’s use of the term introduces attitudes that are unlike all the attitudes we hear around us.

Blessed are the poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3). Christ’s kingdom begins with those who are broken and bankrupt, not those who “have it all together.”

Blessed are those who mourn (Matthew 5:4). In The Message Eugene Peterson paraphrases the words You’re blessed when you feel you’ve lost what is dear to you. Say what, Jesus? If we follow the flow of Jesus’ teaching, we realize the Lord builds on what he has pointed out about being KINGDOM BLESSED. Being broken and bankrupt causes pain and hurt from the world’s perspective. However, the promise Jesus gives to those who mourn is filled with hope – they will be comforted. Again, The Message offers insight – Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

World perspective: loss, brokenness, bankruptcy. Kingdom of God perspective: love, life, comfort.

As we enter the season of Lent, scripture reminds us that we have an example to encourage us for 40 days. Jesus demonstrates how to live in the anticipation of mourning and being comforted. The Father’s plan was the Son to be rejected, despised, crucified. But while fulfilling the Father’s plan, time after time Jesus experiences divine comfort:

- Start of public ministry – After 40 days of temptation in wilderness (Mark 1:13)

- Close of public ministry (Luke 22:43; 23:46)

We can walk with Jesus on a deeper level during the next 40 days. As we choose to seek our Savior and Lord, we have the promise that we will be BLESSED—from mourning to comfort!