1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. He said: 3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit,for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Calvin abridged: Many are pressed down by distresses, and yet continue to swell inwardly with pride and cruelty. But Christ pronounces those to be happy who, chastened and subdued by afflictions, submit themselves wholly to God, and look to him for protection. Christ does not advocate Stoicism with its stiff upper lip, but offers them the hope of eternal life. It is only when we reduce ourselves to nothing and rely on the mercy of God that we become poor in spirit. Some who are overwhelmed by despair murmur against God in their pride.
Thoughts: James 4 tells us to submit to God. But many refuse to submit or repent or listen to God. God cannot get their attention with a bullhorn, an alarm clock, a sledge hammer or any other way. God wants us to humble ourselves before Him and pay attention to what He tells us in the world around us by His providence. The world would tell us that if you really want to go somewhere then we should have high self-esteem and pride. Christ tells us if we want to be great in His kingdom we should learn to be the servant of all.
Prayer: Help me, O Lord, to have a humble heart, and to hear your voice.
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