based on Matthew 5:1-12
Faithful God, we think that we know what it means to be blessed. We regularly count our blessings: home, family, comfort, security, peace. We remember those elements in our lives that bring us joy and safety, and at times make it a point to give you thanks, as you are the ultimate source of all that is good and life-giving.
You invite us to consider that those experiencing hardship will be blessed as well, and this is a struggle for us to understand. You call blessed those who are grieving, those who are poor in spirit, those who show mercy, those who are meek, among so many others. This is strange to consider at first–you seem to be turning traditional ideas of blessing upside down. But then we are able to see: those most in need of such blessing will receive it. Those who struggle for justice and peace, who crave relief the most, who make a warring world more gentle, will receive what they need. This is cause for rejoicing, and to seek how we may be a part of such a blessing as well.
O God, make us a blessing, so that others may be blessed through us. Amen.
Jeffrey A. Nelson 