The beatitudes are a set of assertions that Jesus gave for all believers. They are actually the preamble to a larger message known as the Sermon on the Mount. To be poor in spirit is to acknowledge one's spiritual poverty, which will enable one to connect with God and enjoy His reign. To mourn or realize one's wretchedness, will open up doors to receive God's comfort. To be gentle is the way to conquer the earth. To hunger and thirst after righteousness is a prerequisite to being satisfied. To show mercy enables one to receive mercy. To be pure in heart helps one to experience the reality of God. To be a peacemaker is befitting of the character of God and shows one how to be a child of God. Kingdom people can endure persecution for righteous sake, for they have great rewards. Christ did not intend these to be a set of rules for believers to do to receive God's blessings in the future, but rather an introduction to the characteristics that covenant people should already be practicing. The present tense in each of the beatitudes indicates that they are to be present within the people of the God's Kingdom. We are often mistaken that the promise that each assertion carries is for the future in Gods heavenly kingdom, somewhere in the sweet by and by. They certainly will make sense for the future which God has promised, but in Christ Jesus the future has arrived. And in Him we are called to live out these glorious assertions. So, let us live them out and experience the goodness of God here and now!
