7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.(A) 8 Blessed are the pure in heart,(B) for they will see God.(C) 9 Blessed are the peacemakers,(D) for they will be called children of God.(E)
All of us need mercy, for all of us are sinners. How can we ask God's mercy and refuse to show mercy to others? How can we ask God's forgiveness and hold a grudge against some person in our hearts?
2. Blessed are the pure in heart (8)
Jesus promises the pure in heart that they will see God. We are not naturally pure in heart, so we need forgiveness. When we are cleansed by Jesus' blood, we are pure in heart (1Jn 1:7). Then we can draw near to God. We can know his love and have his peace.
3. Blessed are the peacemakers (9)
The world's peace is based on compromise. Jesus' peace is based on unconditional love; Jesus died to give us peace with God. The gospel brings peace, so gospel workers are the real peacemakers. We must make peace, not war in the world.
Prayer: Lord, purify my heart and life through Jesus' blood, so that I may walk with you and share your gospel with others.