Blessed or Not

Blessed or Not
Epiphany 4; Matthew 5:1-12
Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not achieving the goals of this age:
to be wealthy, well known, in control.
No, the poor who are free of self-pride,
find the space for God’s kingdom within.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not repressing the grief in our hearts
so we’re numb to what causes us pain.
No, the ones who acknowledge their loss
open hearts so some comfort is shared.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not well trained for some public display, 
so persuasive, well groomed, self-assured.
No, the meek in simplicity sit,
tuning in to the wisdom of Earth.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not just hiding our heads in the sand
so complacency is not disturbed.
No, the hunger for justice and truth
is assuaged in supporting what’s right.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not to profit by others’ defeat
or to murder behind duty’s mask.
No, compassion and kindness can heal,
mercy given lets mercy return.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not dark glasses obscuring the light
that might show us our faults and world need.
No, awareness of others and self  
clears our hearts to encounter our God.

Do you know what it means to be blessed?
Not invading to gather more power,
knocking down all that gets in our way.
No, it’s those who embrace and make peace
who are named as the children of God.

Being blessed is not safe and assured,
for the prophets who dare to speak out
are at risk of abuse and self-doubt.
Blessed are those who rejoice and are glad,
finding God in the turmoil and pain.
	Barbara Messner 28/01/2026