Devotion:
Read Matthew 5:1-12.
The Bible reading today includes a section of Jesus’ teaching that is often called “The Beatitudes.” Beatitudes can be described as “ultimate blessings.” These blessings refer to the goodness of life with God in his kingdom and presence. And we can count on these blessings despite all the difficulties we may face in our lives. All who claim God’s promises in Christ can live in the hope of these promises. But the beatitude blessings are more than just promises for the future.
Christian joy includes a profoundly deep sense of peace and comfort that sustains believers even in the midst of persecution, trials, and suffering. The blessedness of this joy is the same as the ultimate blessedness of the beatitudes. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God offers us a joyful, blessed spirit, not only in anticipation of the life to come but also in this life.
A joyful spirit is not one that is happy all the time, no matter the circumstances. Rather, it has the firm foundation of peace and understanding that no matter what happens, God loves us, knows us, and will never leave us. This is the best blessing ever.
Personal Worship Option:
Dear God, you give us so many blessings, the most important one being your presence in our lives here on earth and in heaven. Thank you for giving our spirit the joy that we have in you. Amen.
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