What Does It Mean To Be Truly Happen?

Day 10 Matthew 5:3


“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Christ begins his sermon on the mount by teaching us how to live a “blessed life”. The word “blessed” in the original language is best translated “happy”. Jesus wants to teach what TRUE happiness looks like, and how live in it. This is different than the version of the happiness the world prescribes, which is based on things that are fleeting. Often the world focuses on wealth, fame or pleasure.  Being "poor in spirit", is best associated with “humility”.  Poor in spirit is not about a lack of courage, or even necessarily material poverty, but it is the opposite of pride and self-reliance.  Matthew Henry says this, “But this poverty of spirit is a gracious disposition of soul, by which we are emptied of self, in order to our being filled with Jesus Christ. “
Lent by nature is all about “emptying” ourselves. This is not easy, as our ego is always wanting to be the center of attention.


Jesus, you showed ultimate humility by emptying yourself, coming down out of heaven and becoming a servant, even unto death on a cross. Help us to follow your footsteps during this Lenten season. Amen. 

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