I
consent reckoning solemnly honors
possess justice merciful persecution
thirst really content satisfy
One day a vast multitude follows our Blessed Lord up a mountain side. They
come trooping after Him, men, women, and children; their homes, their
business, all the cares of this life, by common consent left behind. Now
He has stopped and turned round, facing them. He waits long and patiently
as they come toiling up, guiding them with His hand to go here and there
where they may hear Him best.
It is His first great Sermon that He is going to preach, this Sermon
on the Mount, and it is not only for the numbers beyond all reckoning
gathered together here, but for all that shall come into this world and
have to be taught what they must do to save their souls. Therefore He
would speak so solemnly and from such a lofty place. He sits down, and the
Twelve come and stand around Him, or sit on the ground at His feet. The
people press round as close as they can, and when all are seated and quiet
He begins to speak.
What will the text of this great Preacher be? What is the thought
uppermost in His mind and heart? This--to teach us what we must do to be
happy. He knows that we are made for happiness, and that we long to be
happy. But He knows, too, that very many try to find happiness in things
that will not satisfy them, in the riches, pleasures, and honors of this
world which can never content our hearts. And so He tells us in the
beginning of His Sermon on the Mount who are really blessed or happy.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall possess the land.
“Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.
“Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice, for they shall
have their fill.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
“Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of
God.
“Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’ sake, for theirs is
the kingdom of Heaven.”
Blessed the sufferers for whom Heaven is waiting! this is the text of the
Sermon on the Mount.