Who are the Poor in Spirit?

Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Matthew 5:3

All eight of the Beatitudes begin the same way in English translations:  “Blessed are….”  This causes the Beatitudes to be seen as something one tries to cultivate and it places the Beatitudes in the future as if it is something that we strive to attain.

What is not apparent to English readers is that there are no verbs in these sayings – no “are.”  This makes each of the Beatitudes more like a pronouncement than a goal to be achieved.  In Jesus’ way of thinking, there is no “how to do it” book for the Beatitudes.  So it should read “O the blessedness of someone who is poor in spirit,” etc.

The Beatitudes are not future but present.  They are more like triumphant acknowledgements of bliss or joy that exists in the now and can’t be taken away.  Odd, isn’t it, to be joyful about poverty of spirit, but Jesus still says it is something to be grateful for, even joyful because of what it promises its possessor.

This first, of eight, Beatitudes means to be abjectly poor.  This is not talking about poverty, having nothing to eat, and having to live in a slum.  Jesus would not pronounce such a condition good or blessed.  Rather, this Beatitude refers to poverty of spirit, someone who is utterly helpless and ignorant, unable to cope with life.   This prompts a trust in and dependency on God. 

This dependency is not seen in those who feel self-sufficient and have no need for what God can provide.

Some scholars say that the Beatitudes are a chain that prompt or are prompted by the other Beatitudes.  It seems logical that poverty of spirit would be the first in the chain, because of its openness to God’s direction.  On the other hand, the arrogant or proudful person is. by her or his nature, unable to receive direction. 

A person who is “poor in spirit” is able to admit shortcomings and failures. She welcomes Jesus into her life, and she yields to his guidance, knowing that it will help her to be like him.

Prayer:

Dear God, we admit that our tendency is to resist, disagree, and protect ourselves.  We know that it is only in humility, transparency, and self-honesty that we can feel the joy of your wisdom and direction.  Let us feel the conviction of your Spirit and so experience the blessedness of your presence.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.