I think about how we come to Jesus, recognizing our sinful condition, seeking God's rescue from it. We have lived according to our most basic instincts and are tired of our lives being out of control. We have consumed our fill of the world's rational, wile our hunger for lasting wisdom, is so thick in the pit of our stomach, that we can no longer stand to be without it. We are in need of mercy. Our physical environment has left marks on us that need a divine and permanent eraser. We just want to feel clean. We no longer want to be objects of wrath and long to be at peace with our Creator. We want to be righteous no matter what it costs. Friends, family, reputation, even our physical well being are no longer as important as our relationship with God.
Imagine walking, with all of these thoughts going through your head. You hear the faint sound of Jesus in the distance, you hear Him begin to teach:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 5:3-12 (ESV)
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