In this passage Jesus repeats the word “blessed” numerous times to his listeners.  The word literally means “to be happy.” But that might seem confusing because Jesus in this passage rattles off four quite negative scenarios in which he declares that we are “blessed”: When we’re poor, when we’re hungry, when we weep, and when people hate us and revile us because of our faith in him.

It’s a challenging declaration from our Lord. He promises us not only that we will be granted a future glory because of our faithfulness in him — but also a PRESENT state of blessing even WHILE we lack finances and food and when we’re sad.

Pastor Scott called this a “deep satisfaction in your soul.” That despite tremendous pain and brokenness, God empowers us to rejoice. And even when our current situation is hard, he emphasized that “it’s about the conclusion.”