Jesus assured his disciples: “God blesses you, who are poor, because the kingdom of God belongs to you. God blesses you now that you are hungry, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you now that you weep, for in due time you will laugh.”

What a strange blessing to those who are poor, hungry, and weeping. Perhaps you don’t feel identified with any of these descriptions.

But Jesus was referring to the poor not as destitute, but to those who recognize their need for God. We cannot attain His mercy if we do not relinquish our self-sufficiency and personal pride. The path to the Creator is humility.

He also spoke of those who hunger, not for food, but for God’s justice and His kingdom. Can you imagine the transformation this world would undergo if God’s justice were established? It would cease the unjust distribution of wealth, corruption, and crime.

Likewise, he referred to those who weep and feel they do not fit into such a destructive world. Have you experienced the sadness of watching your family and friends march towards an irreversible abyss?

Perhaps now you identify with Jesus’ description. He is seeking you to bless you and invite you to be His disciple.