blessed are
the poor in spirit
theirs is the kingdom of heaven
God holds those humble in the palm of his hand
where to their hearts he tends

blessed are
those who mourn
held in our arms and in our hearts
God’s tender love is expressed for such
who suffer the bitter part

blessed are
the gentle
who cover faults with grace
not thwarted by the harsh and arrogant
they serve with a loving face

blessed are
those with a righteous hunger and thirst
God will move all obstacles
in their path
for they desire to seek him first

blessed are
the merciful
who will receive mercy in kind
the evidence of this quality of God
brings the Son of God to mind

blessed are
the pure in heart
whose eyes focus on the king
they remain cleansed and sanctified
despite Satan’s schemes

blessed are
the peacemakers
reconciliation is how they serve
true disciples of Jesus they bring harmony
his witness on this earth

blessed are
the persecuted
indeed for righteousness’ sake
their unwavering stand separates them
standing not as the world’s claim

blessed are you
sold to the truth
rejected by the world
reviled and abused
blessed are you
of a disciple’s life
who fear not disdain
or the crowd’s angry lies
blessed are you
for Satan’s not concerned
by the lukewarm and uncertain
whose hearts do not burn
rejoice and be glad
sold out for Christ
if the road was easy
there would be no price
but if the grade is steep
and the wind’s in your face
take those for signs
you’re running the right race

(Based on Matthew 5:1-12 The Sermon on the Mount; The Beatitudes)

© Joel Tipple
#30/14