This week we hear the the very first of Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. This large block of teaching is the way Jesus kicks off his ministry in Matthew's gospel, and makes clear to all listening what he believes to be true about the Kindom of Heaven. These first twelve verses, know as the Beatitudes, set the tone for this vision. In these first words before the crowd, Jesus illustrates the upside-down, paradoxical nature of truth. Blessed are the poor in spirit. Blessed are the meek. Blessed are those who mourn. In a world where being blessed meant strength and prosperity, these ideas would have been radical, as they are today. What is something you have come to realize is true that at first seems paradoxical or counterintuitive? How has this informed the way you live your life?
top of page
bottom of page