Hope for the Poor in Spirit

Matthew 5:1-12 (NASB) 2020 edition

1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.
2 And He opened His mouth and 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 gentle, for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive 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 have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

REFLECTION

The dreaded question has been asked of me once again: “What do you want for Christmas, dear?” I know it is asked with genuine intent. When young I always had a quick answer prompted by the latest ad for the most popular toys. As an adult, in the affluent west, I really do not need much and I dread thinking about what color shirt or sweater that I need or the latest gadget designed to make life easier or to entertain.  The teachings of Jesus on the mountain suggest that the person who knows their true need is not lacking but actually well off. 

When asked what do we want for Christmas, what if we thought first about spiritual needs not physical ones?  Would not your loved one want to give you inner peace in the midst of outward chaos?  What if we asked for increased passion to love those who are hard to love or patience to see other’s perspectives in times of trouble? 

Granted these are things we cannot ask for because others cannot give them.  Only God can change our heart and give spiritual gifts.  What would happen, however,  if we began asking people to pray for us this Christmas for a more loving heart, purer speech, or compassionate response to the needs of others?  What if we asked people to give gifts in our name to those who need shelter, or food, or clean water?  

Blessed is the one who recognizes their spiritual poverty and asks God to transform them.  Blessed is the one who ask for gifts for those who are in greater need than themselves.

PRAYER

Jesus, change our way of thinking.  Help us see our need and look to You.  Help us see the needs of others and give of our wealth to meet the needs of others. Amen.

Written by the Rev. Dave Kulchar, Prior, NAMS Midwest (Indianapolis, Indiana, USA), and NAMS Prayer Coordinator.