About two months ago, I began a 31week (free!) online study offered by JesusCollege.com based on Dallas Willard's book The Divine Conspiracy. This study is a deep dive into the Beatitudes found in the fifth chapter of the book of Matthew and explains what it means to be an apprentice of Jesus. (It's not too late to join this study, if you are interested. Previous half hour lessons are recorded.)
This is a book to read slowly and thoughtfully. At times, I reread passages to ensure I am getting what is being presented. I'm learning that the Beatitudes are not rules or a qualification list. Phew! That takes a load off!
The beatitudes are "explanations and illustrations, drawn from the immediate setting, of the present availability of the kingdom through personal relationship to Jesus. They single out cases that provide proof that, in him, the rule of God from the heavens truly is available in life circumstances that are beyond human hope." p. 121
(Photo by Tim Wildsmith on Unsplash)
At the end of last week's lesson, our teacher Doug Webster encouraged us to write down some personal beatitudes. In other words, fill in the blank:
Blessed are the ________________ for theirs is the kingdom of the heavens.
Here are a few that came to mind for me:
Blessed are the frustrated....
Blessed are the disappointed...
Blessed are the fearful....
Blessed are the insecure.....
Blessed are the hopeful.....
Blessed are the impatient....
Blessed are the dreamers.....
Blessed are the persistent....
Blessed are the empty-handed....
Blessed are the guilty...
What would you add?
