Sunday, September 1, 2024  

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Today's Scripture
Matthew 5:1–12

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

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

“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (NRSV)

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Reflection

Along with English translations, I've also read this lesson in French and Scots. In both, “blessed” is translated as “happy.” I love that as a definition of “blessed.” 

But then there's “shall.” It's trickier, at least for most Americans.

There's intent behind “shall” — not just what will happen, but what should happen. As I've seen in books about writing, “shall” is the future tense of “should.”

Each thing in this lesson from Jesus should happen, and shall.

That is happiness. 

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Prayer
Dear God, as your Son taught, many things I see will not be the same forever. They shall change. Help me to trust that because they shall, they will. Thank you for that happiness. Amen.

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Written by Margaret Laing, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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