As begun last week, the gospel lesson for the next several Sundays will provide portions of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Jesus proclaimed these Beatitudes (“Blessed are…”), in part, to guide our Christian living.
Certainly, as Christians we already know the way to heaven. Jesus alone remains that “way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Truly, as Christians we realize that we can’t live the perfect lives God demands. If so, then why would we need a Savior from sin? Therefore, Jesus lived that perfection and died for our sins as our Substitute (Matthew 5:17-18).
Nevertheless, as faithful Christians we follow God’s word to guide us in pleasing Him—our way of saying “Thank You” for His gift of salvation. By the Holy Spirit’s power in the word, Christians receive God-power to “let their lights shine.” What’s the purpose? Jesus says “…that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).