Blessed are the poor in Spirit

Matthew 5:1-12

Story & Lessons

The Beatitudes describe the blessedness of those who belong to God’s kingdom.

The world says, "Blessed are the rich."

But the Lord Jesus declares, "Blessed are the poor in spirit".

This blessing has nothing to do with material wealth but with the recognition of our spiritual poverty.

Those who are ‘poor in spirit’ are very much aware of their need as sinners.

They cry, "God be merciful to me a sinner!".

Their pride has been broken and they have a humble and contrite spirit.

They realize their own utter helplessness, expect nothing from self, everything from God.

God’s kingdom is for ‘the poor in spirit!’

The mourning in the second Beatitude is not that of bereavement.

It is the mourning and grieving over sin of those who have recognized and felt their spiritual poverty.

It is the godly sorrow produced by repentance.

It also involves grief because the name of God whom we love is dishonored by wicked men.

Those who mourn over sin are blessed because they know the precious comfort of God.

Reflection...

Are we poor in spirit?

Do we mourn over our sins?