Introduction
Matthew 5:1–12: Today’s reading in Matthew’s Gospel begins Jesus’s “Sermon on the Mount” (5:1—7:29). The sermon opens with blessings (verses 3–12) known as the Beatitudes, the word “beatitude” being another word for “blessing” (or true happiness) and a declaration of God’s favor. Throughout the sermon, Jesus describes a vision of God’s realm (the Kingdom of heaven) as an alternative community that stands in sharp contrast to a worldly empire built on power, wealth, and status.
Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 5:12a GNT
[Jesus said:] “Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven.”
Read
1 Jesus saw the crowds and went up a hill, where he sat down. His disciples gathered around him, 2 and he began to teach them:
3 “Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor;
the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!
4 “Happy are those who mourn;
God will comfort them!
5 “Happy are those who are humble;
they will receive what God has promised!
6 “Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires;
God will satisfy them fully!
7 “Happy are those who are merciful to others;
God will be merciful to them!
8 “Happy are the pure in heart;
they will see God!
9 “Happy are those who work for peace;
God will call them his children!
10 “Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires;
the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!
11 “Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers. 12 Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven. This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted.
Reflect
Reread verses 3–12. Whom does God favor? Why? How does Jesus envision the Kingdom of heaven?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank you for the blessing of your words that describe true happiness and life in the Kingdom of heaven. Help me to follow your teachings and obey your will. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Matthew 5:13–26: Jesus continues teaching about the Kingdom of heaven.
