In Christ’s Way!

In Christ’s Way  – My Daily Bread!

Our reflection is taken from the words of Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5: 3-10, NIV, He said:

“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.”

Here Jesus describes what has commonly been referred to as the ‘beatitudes’ or attitudes that result in ‘extreme blessedness or happiness’.  They describe what we should be like as His followers and also gave Christ’s disciples a glimpse of what God considered important in their new life.  Some of these attitudes may have conflicted with the prevailing postures of the Pharisees and the Sadducees, the Jewish ruling classes of the time.  They were known for their pride and lust for power.  However, Jesus made it clear that to be used by God a different attitude was needed along with a different set of values.

The beatitudes focused on love and humility.  The followers of the ‘Way’, which is what Jesus’ ministry was often referred to at that time; were to show forth mercy, compassion, and spirituality.  The old values caused the Israelites to focus on their elite position before God due to their covenant relationship with Him through Abraham.  It did not necessarily result in knowing God and obedience.  The ‘Way’ however, was not a destination, but a course of life for the heart that had been transformed by Christ.

In these attitudes we see the very Spirit of the Most High revealed!  His blessed ones interests are turned away from the things of this world to the things of God, namely: His comfort, being filled with God; receiving His mercy, experiencing God and entering His kingdom!  These new attitudes that Jesus was looking for in his followers then is the same for us now; they will challenge the way we live each and every day and be in contrast to what the world considers important.

How beautiful are you Saints before the Lord?  Do your attitudes line up with God’s values?

Prayer: Lord, capture my heart for your kingdom, may my soul thirst for your righteousness; renew in my spirit a willingness to commit to your attitudes and to love you and all that you entrust in my care for the kingdom.  Make me beautiful for you!  In Christ Name, Amen.

Copyright© 2011 – 2012 Colleen Holton All Rights Reserved.