Beatitudes

Blessed Are They

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (1)

The heart detached from self and greed,
Renouncing riches and their lure,
Looks to their Father in its need --
The joys of freedom bless the poor.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." (2)

The cross of suffering can bear
The fruit of growth in faith and love.
The cross, embraced with loving care,
Draws blessed comfort from above.

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." (3)

The humble heart has found its place;
It serves faithfully as it should.
The Lord blesses it with His grace;
Its role in His plan's understood.

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." (4)

The greatest good is Father's will.
The heart who strives to serve Him well
Is blessed with joy and has its fill.
Its extra effort will excel.

"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy." (5)

The merciful heart is set free;
It heals the hurt when it forgives.
It draws down the Lord's own mercy
To bless hard hearts and free captives.

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." (6)

The pure heart is blessed with clear sight,
To glimpse the grandeur of God's ways.
With eyes of faith that pierce the night,
It sees God's hand with loving gaze.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God." (7)

In hearts of peace, the Spirit dwells;
In the still soul, the Lord will stay.
His grace is drawn from deepest wells
To bless the lost for whom we pray.

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (8)

The hearts left broken and forlorn,
The Lord will bless with victory:
The Lord carried the hurt and scorn
Upon His cross at Calvary.




(c) Paul Buis, 2002

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1.Matthew 5:3
2. Matthew 5:4
3. Matthew 5:5
4. Matthew 5:6
5. Matthew 5:7
6. Matthew 5:8
7. Matthew 5:9
8. Matthew 5:10