Blessed

It is not humanly possible to get them to look at the camera at the same time. Even as goofy looking as I am.

Matthew 5:3-12 (NASB) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven. 4) Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5) Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth . 6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 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. 10) Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11) Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Last night a brother in Christ encouraged me with these verses and they have been with me all day. Notice that each one of these is the exact opposite of what the world teaches us. Me first, No mercy, if it feels good it must be alright (whether it is sin or not) and I deserve this. You know what we deserve? Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Yes we deserve death. However God in His sovereignty had mercy on us and sent Jesus to pay that penalty for us. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.
Have you ever been persecuted? Probably not in a blatant obvious way, but as a follower of Christ most likely words (Jesus Freak, Bible thumper, Religious nut, etc.) or snubs. As adoptive parents of African American, and Bi-racial children, we have had the mean looks, disparaging remarks and even "where did you steal that baby from", but what a joy and honor to take that for our precious babies, and as a Christian for our risen Savior. I guess I am a Jesus freak of the 1st order. Again Matthew 5:12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great: