January 10

Matthew 5:1-12 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

8"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Observation

Jesus saw the crowds and went up the mountain. Its amazing how often people wanted to be close to Jesus and often he choose to go away from the crowds.
This passage is a simple passage that many of us have read many times. That is why I want to slow down to read it more thoughtfully and hear God speak to me. In some sense its a list of people that are being blessed by God. I wonder the different groups of people that would be listed by those who have some "authority" in the world's eyes as blessed. Possibly: intelligent people, people with money, people who are physically attractive (according to today's standards), people who accomplish a lot, who else might be on this list. How does it compare to the Jesus list?

Application

Deep within my heart - who do I believe is living a good life (aka is blessed)?

That question is what I sense God wanting me to wrestle with today. Who has what I want? And, how does that line up with what Jesus is blessing?
How often do I hear people say (or think or desire), "I wish I had a little more or lot more money, then I could ..... be in a better place, really do what I want, help others, etc."
And, how often am I tempted to think the same way. Do I really, deep down, believe that more money would make my life better or would a pure heart, or mercy, or seek peace in relationships, or pursue right ways of living (righteousness) make my life better? My true answer is reflected in my prayers, my yearnings, and the allocation of my attention.

Prayer

O Loving Father, thank you so much for such clear teaching. Your living word has touched my heart deeply and convicted me of truth. As, I can honestly say that I am not always pursuing the things in your list. I give you permission to bring truth into my life through your word and your people so that I can be in line with your desires. Ultimately, I do believe that pursuing these things will bring about the good life in Christ, yet, so often I'm tempted by my own busyness to want the "easy" things of this earth. Correct me and remind me that you are a good Father who wants to give good (actually, the best) things to me so that I can be a blessings, reflecting you, to others. I love you and am so grateful for your truth which sets me free from my slavery to the "tasty fruit" of this world. May I taste the delicious fruit of your kingdom. Love, your child

--John Loppnow