Being open to receive God’s blessing - May 4

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalms 41, 52; PM Psalm 44; Exod. 32:1-20; Col 3:18-4:6-18; Matt. 5:1-10

Westina Mathews, adjunct professor at General Theological Seminary, served as a spiritual shepherd for a group of about 20 people via ZOOM on Saturday morning. We sat at our own homes, in front of computers, and opened ourselves up for reflection, prayer, and gratitude, guided by writings of the late Fred Rogers. It was a lovely and beautiful spiritual direction session in a group setting.

One of the questions considered was how we are simultaneously givers and receivers, and how we can be both today. One person shared the cycle that you may have experienced: in connecting and giving to others, she has received so much joy. I am reminded of the beatitude we hear today: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.” Similarly, in forgiving, we are forgiven; in welcoming, we are welcomed. So often, the action we are doing for others becomes a gift for us, too. The opportunity for us is to pay attention to our interactions, so that we may receive and acknowledge that joy.

This day, the beatitudes strike me as just the right words we need to hear, as salve to bind up our exhaustion; as cool water to refresh us. Let us breathe deeply, sit down, and receive the blessings that Jesus is sharing with us.

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • Which beatitude do you most need to hear today?

  • What blessing of hope is missing for you?

Daily Challenge

Meditate upon the beatitudes. Practice being attentive and engaged with moments of blessing and gratitude today. Tell one person about the appreciation you feel.

Katherine Harper