Our Lenten journey continues focusing on the Beatitudes of Jesus:
Taste and See: Then be Filled Messages on the Beatitudes – Matthew 5:1-12
So far we’ve heard:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
This Sunday we listen to next two:
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
So, who wants to see God? Perhaps many have trouble envisioning God because we don’t see one another very well. A pure heart is not a prerequisite to see God, it is a consequence.
Henry Nouwen says, “there is a still small voice within each of us…if we train ourselves to hear it by eliminating the noise that deafens us, we will hear what God is saying and asking of us. When we begin to key into this, we will see God.”
So how can we stay focused on God’s image and purpose for our lives? Interestingly enough, I believe it has a lot to do being a peacemaker who Jesus calls children of God. It may begin by looking in the mirror. No, you will not see God, but you will see two things. You will see an image of God and second, you will see a child of God.
Being a peacemaker is one who overcomes evil with good. I confess that at times I focus more on being a peacekeeper rather than a peacemaker. What’s the difference?
Come and see, Pastor Rob
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