SELLEST OSAST
Matthew 5:1-12
Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.
He said:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
-The Dance of the Dead by Throughline. My favorite history podcast has an enlightening episode on the historical origins and Christian roots of Halloween and All Souls Day. If you haven't had a chance to give it a listen, I think you'd enjoy doing so.
-Everything Happens for a Reason: And Other Lies I've Loved by Kate Bowler. This book has been so helpful to many, especially as they navigate grief and the question of why God would allow bad things to happen. If you haven't had a chance to read it, I'd encourage you to do so.
-It's Ok That You're Not Ok: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn't Understand by Megan Devine. When a painful loss or life-shattering event upends your world, here is the first thing to know: there is nothing wrong with grief. "Grief is simply love in its most wild and painful form," says Megan Devine. "It is a natural and sane response to loss." So, why does our culture treat grief like a disease to be cured as quickly as possible? This book has been recommended to me often so I thought I would put it on your radar as well.
My Email: ben@benjaminrcremer.com
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Thank you so much for listening!
