GOD PAUSE- Jan. 31 Matthew 5:1-12 The beatitudes spoken in Matthew 5:1-10 provide a series of blessings that are general and widely applicable. But in 5:11, Jesus gets more personal. He speaks directly to his disciples in each generation. Blessed are YOU when people revile you and persecute you and utter against you falsely on my account. Commenting on this verse, Frederick Beuchner says: Jesus saved for last the ones who side with heaven even when any fool can see its the losing side and all you get for your pains is pain. Those who side with the cross know that Gods kingdom is not about wealth and power and super success. They know that the way of the cross is self-sacrifice and compassion and tireless service. The cross is foolishness to many, but to those who believe it is the power of God (1 Cor 1:18). Thats why Jesus can say that persecution and pain can be a reason for rejoicing. New life is born of death. But there is also a danger in this. We need to be careful not to victimize people by telling them that the abuse and persecution they may be suffering is a holy opportunity to receive Gods blessing. Rather, when we see innocent victims being persecuted and abused and slandered, we are called to side with those who are suffering. It is the way of Jesus and the way of blessing. Grant us the courage, Jesus, to speak up for those who are persecuted, abused, and slandered. And when we experience personal pain and loss, send us advocates to bless us even as we suffer and mourn. For all the blessings we receive from your gracious hand, we give thanks. Amen. Scott Tunseth General Editor, Fortress Press, Minneapolis, Minn. Master of Divinity, 1983
Posted on: Fri, 31 Jan 2014 13:52:52 +0000
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