Monday, October 27, 2008

Today’s text

Matthew 5:1-5

Seeing the crowds, [Jesus] went onto the mountain. And when he was seated his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak. This is what he taught them: How blessed are the poor in spirit: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs. Blessed are the gentle: they shall have the earth as inheritance. Blessed are those who mourn: they shall be comforted.

Reflection

Blessed are we, indeed, my Lord, when we live with lowly spirits, not filled with arrogance or presumption.

Blessed are we, for then our eyes shall see all that is and all we are as holy gift from the One who freely fills our lungs with the breath of life.

Then our hearts will dwell in joy in continual awareness of the gift of life.

Then our lips will give thanks for each small joy of the day.

Then our souls bask in the constant loving nearness of the One who makes the sun to shine on just and unjust alike.

Then our fingers will not count what we have and compare it to that of others, as if life consists in having, not loving.

Then our hands shall use all that we have as tools to tend your world with care--and to be given over to others when we are done.

Then our minds shall be convinced that life and joy rests in knowing you, the great giver and lover of all you have made, of all life, of our lives.

Then our anxious egos shall fly from the urge to defend themselves from assaults to our dignity, as if our tiny selves were isolated fortresses in a hostile land.

Then we shall make our home in the environment of your grace, where your kindness is known and ever near.

Blessed are we, my great and gracious Friend, when we live with lowly spirits, for then our hearts are ready to receive every gift of love.

Pr. David L. Miller