Teaching

Matthew 5:1-3 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when hesat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouthand taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom ofheaven.

Have you ever looked at history and found events that you just wish you were there. I can imagine the amount of energy both of dreams and fears that must have filled the room as those American founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence. I would love to have been present when Newton had that breakthrough moment when the apple fell from the tree. To pick the minds of those brilliant people who led us into the future. I would love to have been at the Lincoln Memorial to hear the "I Had A Dream" speech in person. I still cry every time I listen to it. I could go on and on and pick a wide variety of events that would be priceless.

I would have to say the my number one however would be to have been sitting on a hill listen to Jesus teach the most extraordinary thoughts and principles to those who would listen. I can just imagine being transfixed by his eyes and the gentleness of his words. I can see myself being challenged and confused by the words that would challenge my ethical understanding and demand a deeper relationship with God.  

I wasn't there, but his words live on and they continue to bless and challenge me. We have been preaching individually through the beatitudes during this Epiphany season. It has been another powerful look at those profound words. Yes I would have loved to be on that hill, but the impact of that moment was not limited to a single moment in history. Like the other events, and even more spectacular than the others the events, this one is still alive.