Today’s Reading: Genesis 5; Matthew 5; Ezra 5; Acts 5
Genesis 5: When God created man and woman he blessed them and created them in the likeness of him. Verse 1-2 reminds me how God has purposefully created and blessed us all. Take time to see his beauty in all people today.
Matthew 5: Supreme Blessedness = Beatitudes
God blesses us. Every day and in every way he has provided a framework and blueprint of a way to live our lives. He is our shepherd, our father, and sent his son for us to provide an example how we should live our lives. Much of my physical life I’ve tried to be my own architect, how much more meaningful when you follow his design.
Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5 teaches us blessed are:
Poor in spirit = For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Those who mourn = They shall be comforted.
Meek = They shall inherit the earth.
Hunger/thirst for righteousness = They shall be satisfied.
Merciful = They shall receive mercy.
Pure in heart = They shall see God.
Peacemakers = They shall be called sons of God.
Persecuted for righteousness = Kingdom in heaven.
Persecute you on his account = Reward is great in heaven.
Grace filled love traits for us all
He goes on to remind us we are the salt of the world the light of the world – let us shine everyday in in all we do. God has our back! Jesus was sent not to abolish the law but provide us an example of being a “doer and a teacher”. Often we do one or the other. When we are doing both for his glory our light shines so bright we encourage others.
We are reminded to avoid anger, lust, divorce, oaths, and retaliation. God tells us to show and give sincere love to our enemies… How hard is that for you? Think about those who have shown us love when we didn’t deserve it. God sent his own son for you and me. Through God- all things are possible!
Dear God, Break our society handcuffs that keep us from sharing the words of this “Life”. Help “our attitudes” with the beatitudes. Teach us to be courageous like Peter & John in Acts 5 and obey God rather than men. Help us to not cease teaching and preaching that our Christ is Jesus and you are all we need. Amen
Have a blessed day!
