As I think about my Tuesday blogs through the summer, I would like them to tie together around a unifying theme. I have chosen the Beatitudes... Matthew 5: 3 - 11.
In the Gospel of Matthew, they are Jesus first teachings, the foundation of his message and ministry. They are to Christianity what the 10 Commandments are to Judaism. There is, however, a significant difference. The Ten Commandments address behaviors. They are concrete and direct. The Beatitudes speak to the inner spiritual reality of life. Changed behavior is the by-product and spiritual wholeness is the goal.
The first Beatitude, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Another translator puts it, "Blessed—happy and spiritually prosperous regardless of outward conditions—are the poor in spirit (the humble), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
Recently I had my feelings hurt. It was largely because of my pride. I was sure I could do it well and I was told "no." To be humble is to live out, "It's not about me." The world does not revolve around me, but I do not always believe that.
To be humble is to not be defensive. When I get defensive, my pride is in the way. To be humble is to be down to earth (humus), open, and able to be attuned to God's Will. It is not a closed fist protecting, it is an open hand giving. The Apostle Paul said it well, "as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing everything." (II Corinthians 6: 10).
"...For theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." The Kingdom of heaven is the Kingdom of right relationships, now! Not something in the future. And you and I experience the Kingdom only when we "are poor in spirit...truly humble."
And believe me, that is not easy. |