poor in spirit

Opening Prayer: Forgive me, Lord Jesus, when I try to raise myself high rather than crouch low.  For only when I learn to crouch low will I be truly blessed.

Scripture: Matthew 5:3

Journal: What does it mean to be poor in spirit?  How do we embrace that posture?

Reflection: “Blessed are those who are poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 5:3)  

What does it really mean to be poor in spirit?  The word poor in the Greek is ptōchos, which means “to crouch; to lower oneself; to take the posture of a beggar; to be lacking anything.”  It is both a realization and a choice.  Thus, those who are poor in spirit have chosen, like Jesus did, to make themselves nothing.  And since they are not concerned with building their own kingdom, they can be fully given to the kingdom of God.

Pray

Closing Prayer: Lord Jesus, teach us what it means to be poor in spirit, so that we can become more like you.  Amen.