January 25, 2008

(7)“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."

(8)"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." 

(9)"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." (Matthew 5: 7-9)

Until this point in the beatitudes, Jesus has mainly dealt with one's inner disposition. Verse seven marks a transition point in this discourse, while the first four beatitudes focus on our dependence on God. The next three begin to explore the outworking of that dependence.

Exhibit Mercy: What does it mean to be merciful? For Jesus, being merciful encompasses generosity, forgiveness, having compassion on those who suffer, and providing healing for those who are need. This idea of mercy anticipates Matthew 6: 14-15: “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

There is a mutual expectation between each individual to express mercy towards each other. Think about it - how many of our problems in life would be solved if we just looked at others through merciful eyes?

Pursue Purity of Heart: Purity of heart is often seen as moral uprightness. It carries with it the idea of a life which is characterized as being pleasing to God. The pure in heart have one goal, they exhibit a "single-minded" devotion toward following Jesus, no matter what the cost. Consider Psalm 24:3-4, which reads, "Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to what is false and does not swear deceitfully."

It is important to keep in mind that Jesus' atoning death made it possible for us to be purified as white as snow. Even so, we are all held responsible for the way we walk. If you have been cleansed by the blood of Christ, then you will walk in a new direction, following Him.

Make Peace: What does it mean to be a peacemaker? Those who are peacemakers work toward wholeness and harmony in their lives, and in their relationships with others. This paints the opposite picture of one who stirs up strife and discord between people. To live as a citizen in the Kingdom of God is a high calling. You are a King’s ambassador in a foreign land!

Consider the Reward: For those who are merciful, they will be shown mercy. Or, consider it this way, because of the mercy shown to you by God, you should have mercy on others. In doing this, you will make peace. Being a peacemaker is often hard in a world full of sin and confusion; it takes a single-minded focus. The focus should be on Christ and Christ alone. He is our righteousness. As you live out this "Kingdom Manifesto," you will see God work in your life and in the lives of those around you. Remember, being a citizen in God’s Kingdom is a high calling.

Written by Matthew Capps