Today we start our new series looking at the Sermon on the Mount.  This is such a famous passage, but when was the last time you read it, really read it?  What a privilege it will be to dig deeper into this part of the Bible together.  The passage this morning is all about being blessed and what that means for us in the light of Jesus. 

As you get ready to hear what it means to live the ‘blessed life’, think about all the things God has blessed you with …  

Now, think about all the ‘problems’ in your life and how they, too, can be blessings.  Here are some examples: 

Problem:  I broke my arm 

Blessing:  I have access to high class medical care 

Problem:  The kids are arguing 

Blessing:  I have children who are healthy and loved 

Problem:  I just don’t have time to read anymore 

Blessing:  I have a job and a house to maintain 

Ok, I think you get the idea.  Now, don’t get me wrong, life isn’t that simple and sometimes it will be difficult to see how God is working in a particular situation.  But I used clichés on purpose – even the things we grumble about are things that God has under control.  Even when we are persecuted, we are blessed because of God. 

Come to church today with fresh eyes and an open heart and see what God has to say to you. 

Janet Sutton