At my church, I’ve discussed the Sermon on the Mount with a small group for nearly a year.
We kept returning to Matthew 5:3 as the essential starting point for everything else in Jesus’ message.
I translate it as, “Thriving are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
This verse feels particularly appropriate for Lent.
I can live an empty life on my own initiative.
Or I can live a full life as I am filled with the Holy Spirit, depending on God throughout each day.
It’s a paradox: we thrive when we humbly acknowledge our weakness and need for God. There’s a joy when we accept our need for God’s love - and live as recipients of that love.
That’s my step with God today.