The Greatest Sermon Ever

Those of us who are journeying together in reading through the Bible this year arrived at the greatest sermon ever written today. I'm speaking of The Sermon on the Mount. The text is found beginning at Matthew 5. I was once again challenged by the opening verses, aka The Beatitudes:

3 "God blesses those who realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is given to them. 4 God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 God blesses those who are gentle and lowly, for the whole earth will belong to them. 6 God blesses those who are hungry and thirsty for justice, for they will receive it in full. 7 God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. 9 God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. 10 God blesses those who are persecuted because they live for God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. 11 "God blesses you when you are mocked and persecuted and lied about because you are my followers. 12 Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted, too.

That's a really good checklist.

• When I have a need, where do I turn first?
• To what, or whom do I turn when I'm sad?
• Are my eyes fixed on service, or being served?
• Do I hunger and thirst for justice for everyone?
• How do I respond to people in need of mercy?
• What is the true condition of my heart?
• What specific steps am I taking to work for peace?
• What is my response to adversity?

I think that's enough to chew on for one day.