In one of our recent virtual weeknight worship services, my husband, Pastor Timothy Carpenter, divided the attendees into chat rooms to select and discuss two of the Beatitudes, their interpretation, and how it relates to life today. It was quite interesting to say the least. I found it to be an excellent reminder of how relevant the Word of God is no matter what is going on in the world, and even more specifically what is going on in your life. When you break down the word “beatitude”, you can logically deduce it to mean that these are what our attitudes should be! In their simplest meanings they are moral values and virtues depicted with a positive spirit that result in God’s blessings.

As my husband and I listened in on the discussion groups, I took a look at the Beatitudes for myself just to get a refresher. The three that verses that spoke so clearly to me are found in St. Matthew 5: 9 – 11. As I mentioned in last week’s blog, it is easy to focus on the negativity that is so prevalent in our world and how it has such an impact on us individually and on our loved ones. Even in the midst of the many peaceful protests, there is an underlying presence of hatred that seeks to destroy the love and support that is being perpetuated for their fellow man.

Verse 9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the church of God.” A peacemaker is not only one who models peace but seeks to spread peace amongst others. In order to share something, you must first possess it. I always say that what is on the inside will at some point find its way and manifest itself on the outside.

Verse 10 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” As followers of Christ, Jesus told us that as He was persecuted, we would be also. Is it a good feeling? Not at all. It wasn’t for Jesus and it will never be for us. But the scripture also tells us that it is but a light affliction. To endure the temporary affliction as a result of striving to live a righteous life (one that can never be achieved of our own merit), is well worth the promise of life eternal with our Father in Heaven.

Verse 11 – “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” This one is particularly meaningful to me. As a young child, it was instilled in me by my parents that your reputation means everything! I was taught constantly about how to conduct myself properly, to be honest, to respect others, and to never portray myself as being superior or better than others. My mother specifically taught me the importance of staying true to my word and how to be a friend to the friend-less. There was one particular time in my life not many years ago, where someone I loved and highly revered sought to malign my reputation. It nearly destroyed me emotionally! But through God, the support of my husband, and a few of those closest around me — I survived and God brought about vindication just like He promised! As I have navigated my way through this journey of life, I have come to know very well the words spoken in Romans 7: 21, I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.” Even when we are doing what we have been assigned to do by God, and to the very best of our ability, we are subject to persecution, lies, and all sorts of evil simply because we are followers of Christ.

So in the midst of all the turmoil and upheaval going on in our world today, I want you to know that your life in the present and in eternity will indeed be BLESSED if you can fight hatred with peace, speak truth over lies, choose good over evil, and above all allow righteousness to reign!!