As we begin a new school year, let us explore the blessed statements and the associated character qualities to receive those blessings. In this devotion, we'll meditate on the first blessed statement from the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches us about embracing spiritual poverty to receive God's blessings. So, let's begin this journey of faith, humility, and growth towards a deeper relationship with God.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus pronounced eight blessings on the large group of people who followed him from various parts of the Middle Eastern regions (Matthew 4:25). He began by saying, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Matthew 5:3. Jesus referred to those who recognised their spiritual poverty and, in humility, depended on Jesus by following him from near and far. When we study the first blessed statement from the Sermon on the Mount, we learn that humility is the character quality that will help us depend on God to receive His blessings. These blessed statements are also known as the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes are derived from the Latin word beatitudo, which means "blessedness" or "happiness." However, in this context, happiness (or blessing) brings real peace, joy and contentment because of Christ in your life, despite circumstances. We will be happy (or blessed) when we recognise our spiritual poverty and our need for God's guidance, strength, and salvation. When we come to Jesus in humility, He will lead us into a deeper relationship with God.
Let us start the new school year by recognising our spiritual poverty and our need for God. Please join us in prayer. "Dear God, thank you for the opportunity to start this new school year. Please guide us as we learn and grow in the character qualities we derive from the Beatitudes to receive your blessings. As we meditate on Matthew 5:3 - Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We recognise that we are spiritually poor and fall short of your expectations. In humility, we ask you to forgive us of our sins and accept us into the kingdom of heaven. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Blessings
Prasad Patchigalla
Principal