for yours is the kingdom of God.
Blessed are you who hunger now,
for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
Blessed are you when men hate you,
when they exclude you and insult you
and reject your name as evil,
because of the Son of Man
C. S. Lewis was once criticized for “not caring for the Sermon on the Mount.” He replied, “As to ‘caring for’ the Sermon on the Mount, if ‘caring for’ here means ‘liking’ or enjoying, I suppose no one ‘cares for’ it. Who can like being knocked flat on his face by a sledge hammer? I can hardly imagine a more deadly spiritual condition than that of a man who can read that passage with tranquil pleasure.” [God in the Dock]
The blessings of the Sermon on the Mount are enveloped in desperate circumstances. Happiness is hidden in the horrible.
It is only when we are surrounded by suffering that this teaching of Jesus is a comfort. It is so like the human heart to cling to prayer and God when we are desperate for salvation, and cling to our comfort when life seems tailor made for our happiness.
Building our awe for a God that is merciful and mighty in all seasons of life is the only remedy I have found. Darker days may come, but today I must find gratitude for the light I have been given. Arming my soul with His truth is essential. Seeking answers to my deepest need for salvation while I am rested and joyful will prepare me for a time when I need answers to difficult questions.
