Luke 6:20-31
“Then he looked up at his disciples and said:
“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.”
“Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled.”
“Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.”
“Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice on that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven, for that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.”
“But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.”
“Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry.”
“Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep.”
“Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the false prophets.” “But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you; pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who asks of you, and if anyone takes away what is yours, do not ask for it back again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:20-31 (NRSVUE)
How are we blessed? Luke points out that being blessed isn’t about having a happy life devoid of drama or financial means. Our “woe” comes when we place our worth, identity, or proof of God’s favor in happiness, food, good times, popularity, money, or charisma. When our worth is in those things above we tend to fall apart when those things are lost. “Woe” becomes despair. In those times we might ask why do you let us suffer, God?
Luke tells us that no matter what happens in our lives, we are still God’s and therefore blessed. Being a follower of God automatically gives us a new hope and security. When stripped of everything, even from life itself God’s love prevails. When hard times come we no longer ask why we suffer but instead anticipate how God will overcome our challenges and bring us closer.
(An interesting note: Compare Luke’s version to the sermon on the mount in Matthew 5:38-42. Luke leaves out the meek, the merciful, the pure in heart, and the hunger for righteousness. These Jewish concepts are removed in favor of a more Greek thinking audience.)
Questions for Reflection:
- Do you know of someone who experienced significant loss and still will say they are blessed? If so, what is their secret to such an attitude?
- When faced with losses in the stock market and the loss of a job, how might we find blessing in that despite our difficulties?
Prayer:
Good and Gracious God, when we have to say goodbye to a loved one or suffer a financial, illness or relational loss, fill us with trust in your care. At the same time hear our grief. Fill us with trust and hope in you so that we will find ourselves grounded in the life you’ve given us now and forever. Amen.
Login To Leave Comment