Emphasis Preaching Journal

This passage combines blessings upon the poor and upon those followers of Christ who are persecuted for their faith. These two concerns may be closely intertwined in our ability to have compassion. As the late E. Stanley Jones once observed, "When we cease to bleed, we cease to bless." Jesus repeatedly turned his disciples' attention toward the poor, the hungry, the grieving. Sometimes churches fail to hear the Savior's concern. "I don't want to know anyone who is a member of that church," said a person viewing a church building which presented a massive brick wall to the outside world.