01-Feb-26 (Matthew 6:1-12)

"Blessed are the poor." "Blessed are the meek."
It sounds counter-intuitive and it's supposed to. The fact that it doesn't fit our experience in this world causes us to consider what sort of a world it would be if we could see more examples of this.
How will the poor be blessed? Well, in addition to the fact that the prophets say that God pays special attention to the poor and how they are treated, there is also the idea that some of that blessing will come through God's own people acting in righteous ways to help the poor.
How will the meek be blessed? In our world, where coercive power is the norm, it requires those of us who want to see God's beloved community come into being to act to bring justice, especially for those who are weak and who's voices are often ignored.
Part of what our offerings do is to further this kind of work here in our community, our nation, and our world, especially in these times when we may be among the few working for these ends.
Consider giving generously, that the world would be blessed by God through us.

Prayer:

Please join me in the spirit of prayer.
God, whose love reaches out into this world of pain, suffering, and injustice, help us to be a part of bringing your beloved community into being by acts of love and justice. Bless these offerings, that they be put to good use in your work in the world.
We pray in the name of Jesus, our Lord, Amen.