SCRIPTURE
Matthew 5: 1-12
(Mat 5:1 NRSV) When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him.
(Mat 5:2 NRSV) Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
(Mat 5:3 NRSV) "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Mat 5:4 NRSV) "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
(Mat 5:5 NRSV) "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
(Mat 5:6 NRSV) "Blessed
are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
(Mat 5:7 NRSV) "Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
(Mat 5:8 NRSV) "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
(Mat 5:9 NRSV) "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
(Mat 5:10 NRSV) "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Mat 5:11 NRSV) "Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
(Mat 5:12 NRSV) Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.