Day 1 · The Beatitudes
Poor in Spirit
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”Matthew 5:3
Reflection
The kingdom begins not with the strong and self-sufficient but with the poor in spirit — those who know their need of God. This is the doorway to everything else Jesus describes: admitting we are spiritually bankrupt on our own. Far from disqualifying us, our emptiness is exactly where God's kingdom comes. Blessed are those who stop pretending they have it all together.
A prayer
Father, I so often try to come to You strong and self-sufficient, hiding my need. Today I admit the truth: I am poor in spirit, and I need You. Thank You that this is not where You turn away, but where Your kingdom begins. Empty my hands of pretense, and fill them with Your grace. I bring You my poverty and receive Your riches. Amen.
Carry this with you
Where are you tempted to pretend you have it together, rather than admit your need of God?