6: 20-23 Jesus turned to his disciples and said,
“God blesses you who are poor, for the kingdom of God is yours.”
“God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied.”
“God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh.”
“What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way.”
Jesus had a heart for people who were struggling. I look back through all the challenges I’ve encountered throughout my life and can see how he was there waiting for me to recognize him, let go of my pride and learn to walk with him though life’s challenges. I was very stubborn and hard headed though. I felt victimized and held onto a lot of anger around what others had “done to me.” I did not feel like I could trust anyone other than myself, so started building up a very thick wall around me to protect myself and went through life making decisions on my own. I would not let anyone in. I am grateful that I was finally able to listen to that small voice that was inside, gave into my pride and made the commitment to read the Bible and go to church for one year. I wish I had done this sooner; however, I am now grateful for those experiences as they have allowed me to connect to others in a way that I could not otherwise, to understand the life challenges they are going through and to just be there for them to listen and love without judgment.