Disciples learn the path of blessedness,
including the path of persecution due of righteousness

Next week the final beatitude (or clarification of the final beatitude) describes the blessing of being persecuted specifically because of Jesus. This week we hear Jesus speak in a more general sense:

Matthew 5:10

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

A basic view of persecution is the subjection of people to hostility, cruelty, or ill-treatment based on race, political affiliation, religious beliefs, etc. But note that Jesus is not saying a person is blessed merely for experiencing persecution. This happens all over the world, but it’s not a blessing in and of itself. Nor does getting persecuted guarantee you a place in heaven’s kingdom. Rather, as Jesus intimates, it is when one suffers for the sake of righteousness – as Jesus defines it.

When we do right, act right, think right, live right, stand up for what is right, it is not always welcomed – especially by those who are doing, acting, thinking, and living otherwise. More on that later; for now let’s ask God for insight and re-direction about how we view suffering for righteousness’ sake.

Prayer For the Week

Father God, I pray that Your Holy Spirit would teach me the blessed condition of suffering for righteousness’ sake. I don’t want to shy away from following Your way regardless of how others treat me. I pray this in the name of Jesus – the Way, the Truth and the Life. Amen.

Micro-Meditation

Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God

Psalm 119:113-120 15th letter: Samekh (ס)

I hate double-minded people,
but I love your law.
You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word.
Away from me, you evildoers,
that I may keep the commands of my God!
Sustain me, my God, according to your promise, and I will live;
do not let my hopes be dashed.
Uphold me, and I will be delivered;
I will always have regard for your decrees.
You reject all who stray from your decrees,
for their delusions come to nothing.
All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross;
therefore I love your statutes.
My flesh trembles in fear of you;
I stand in awe of your laws.

Read the verses of the Psalm.

Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.

Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.

Pondering Point

The traditional meaning of the Hebrew letter Samekh is a prop or pillar. This is alluded to by the poet twice in these eight verses. Can you find them?