April 15

The Beatitudes

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. — Matt 5:3-10 BSB

The blessings of Scripture shine across its pages like stars in the night sky. The Bible is a book of beatitudes and benedictions. God’s mercy is everywhere. Wherever we see Christ, He is bestowing blessings, just as the sun gives light and warmth.

When He was on earth, He was always reaching out His hand to bless someone in need. He laid His hands on children, lepers, the blind, the sick, and even the dead, and each time, He left a rich gift of blessing.

We also remember the day when those gentle hands were stretched out by cruel enemies and fastened to the cross with iron nails. Even then, His hands were extended in blessing because He was dying for our sins. As we see His hands stretched out as wide as they could reach, we are reminded of the vastness of God’s mercy. His arms are open to receive all who come to Him for refuge, even the worst sinners.

It’s striking that the last view we have of Jesus in this world shows Him blessing His disciples. As He led them out, He lifted His hands and blessed them. And while He was blessing them, He was taken up into heaven. There could be no truer picture of Jesus than this final view of Him blessing His people. Even now in heaven, He remains a blessing Savior, holding up His pierced hands in intercession and reaching down with hands full of blessings for our sad and sinful world. If anyone remains unblessed by such a Savior, it can only be because of unbelief and rejection.