Gracious Lord, who came to us to speak words of comfort and invitation, we thank you for accepting us, regardless of where we are. Draw us more and more into your care, that in your presence, we would be transformed by your love, through you who lives in perfect unity with the Father and Holy Spirit forever above. Amen.
‘And he began to speak and taught them, saying:
“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 receive 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 for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”‘ – Matthew 5:2-10