"Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:1-3 NIV
Like thousands of other runners who qualified for the 2020 Boston Marathon only to have the race canceled due to COVID, Sawyers Holt from Pilot Mountain, NC ran it virtually over the weekend. Sawyers said she fought through muscle cramps during a four-mile stretch but was able to finish in front of her parent's home in 3 hours and 55 minutes. Holt voiced appreciation to the large group of supporters who came out, including those who waved and cheered from their homes as she passed and said, "I was pleased and surprised by all the support I received. I was overwhelmed in a good way. I’ve been blessed. This was one of my hardest marathons but it was also one of my best experiences. I’m happy with it.”
And you know, in a day and age when the word 'blessed' is used by people to describe themselves after either receiving something considered good (like a promotion, a new car or a new home) or accomplishing something considered big (like completing a marathon or finishing college), we have lost sight of what it truly means to be blessed. And ironically those things that Jesus said make us blessed have nothing to do with material prosperity or perfect circumstances. Among the many people that Jesus said were blessed were the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, the merciful and the pure in heart; all conditions that cause people to look to God for satisfaction and comfort rather than the things of this world.
So knowing that we are only truly blessed when our spirit rests in God, we know He is all we ever need and we find joy in the circumstances that draw us closer to Him, would you consider yourself blessed today?
Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us that the Word’s definition of what it means to be blessed is contrary to the world’s definition of what it means to be blessed. Cause us to seek and take joy in any circumstance that makes us more like You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
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