Day 15: The Blessed Poor
One day, Jesus climbed a hill and said to his followers, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:3). His listeners must have been stunned. The words, “blessed” and “poor” don’t go together. They are an oxymoron, like “plastic glasses” or “tax return.”
What did Jesus mean by “poor in spirit”? Well, it’s about perspective. In one sense, we are all poor. I came into this world with nothing and I will die with nothing. As a baby, I was dependent on my parents to feed me and provide love and care. One day I will, no doubt, need others to love and care for me again. In between the cradle and the grave lies Jesus’ offer of blessing: “For those with empty hands, humble spirits and clear eyes, I offer you the kingdom of heaven.”
Body language, it seems, matters. I can’t receive from God when my hands are already full. Sadly, if you are like me, you all too often want your cake and eat it too (see Rich Young Ruler, Matt 19:16-22). Can’t I come to you, Jesus, with my independence, lust for popularity, and sense of self-importance? Jesus asks us, “Do you really want to sign up for that class?” Not the poor in spirit – they come with hands empty. And this is good news for those who can’t afford sequins.
Read Matthew 5:3 & Mark 9:33-37
Question to Consider
Do you have enough faith to be poor in spirit?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, come. Overwhelm my soul with the poverty of Jesus. Lord, forgive me for my self-sufficient forays. Touch my soul so that I may live humbly (and freely) in the richness of Jesus’ life.
By Dr. Kevin Hall, Faculty Lead of College of Ministry/CAPS