When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge
crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who
were apprenticed to him, the committed,
climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place,
he sat down and taught his climbing companions.
This is what he said:
"You're blessed when you're at the end
of your rope. With less of you there is
more of God and his rule.
"You're blessed when you feel you've
lost what is most dear to you.
Only then can you be embraced
by the One most dear to you.
"You're blessed when you're content with
just who you are—no more, no less.
That's the moment you find yourselves
proud owners of everything that
can't be bought.
"You're blessed when you've worked
up a good appetite for God. He's food
and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.
"You're blessed when you care. At the moment
of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.
"You're blessed when you get your inside
world—your mind and heart—put right.
Then you can see God in the outside world.
"You're blessed when you can show
people how to cooperate instead of
compete or fight. That's when you discover
who you really are, and your place in God's family.
"You're blessed when your commitment
to God provokes persecution.
The persecution drives you even
deeper into God's kingdom.
"Not only that—count yourselves blessed
every time people put you down or throw
you out or speak lies about you to
discredit me. What it means is that the truth
is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable.
You can be glad when that happens
—give a cheer, even!—
for though they don't like it, I do!
And all heaven applauds.
And know that you are in good company.
My prophets and witnesses have always
gotten into this kind of trouble.”
matt.5:1-12 [MSG]
