Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven… Matthew 5:12
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word beatitude as a state of utmost bliss. Other dictionaries define it as supreme blessedness or exalted happiness. This noun also refers to a state of great joy.
In the sermon on the mount, also called the Beatitudes, Jesus gives us nine blessed remarks. Take time to read Matthew 5: 3-11. Each one of us should at least fit one of these criteria: those who are poor in spirit, who mourn, who are meek, are merciful, are peacemakers, or those who are pure in heart, those who hunger for righteousness, and those who have been persecuted because of their righteousness or mistreated because of the gospel they proclaim.
If any of us fit one of those categories, Christ was telling us that we are blessed. He basically says over and over again, but in different terms, that we will see God face to face, and we will inherit His kingdom. It is with Him all our needs will be met with His rewards. He will turn our sorrow into joy and wipe away our tears. He will hold us up and make us strong. We will be well, full, and our parched souls will be forever quenched with His life-giving waters. He will love, protect, and defend us. We will have peace everlasting.
How and why is this possible? The how--BENEVOLENCE. Jesus saw our need and was benevolent to us while we were poor in spirit. He paid the final and total price for sin. This paved the way for life everlasting with Him. The why--LOVE. Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to take our punishment upon Himself.
Now that should be enough to make anyone rejoice and be glad. Are we living in the state of utmost bliss-- beatitude? We should forever not only feel blessed but know we are blessed because great is our reward not only in heaven, but now, here on earth. We are living the kingdom.
Thank you Lord Jesus for blessing us far beyond all measure. Amen
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