Who Are The Poor In Spirit?

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" ~ Jesus, Matthew 5:3

So much has been said and written about the "poor in spirit" - who they might be, what Jesus really meant, etc. This phrase brings my mind to the broken souls we all pass by every day...they are wandering the streets, they are in group homes, they are fleeing violence, they are seeking shelter, food, comfort, health and peace. No one recognizes them. They are not celebrated. They are not articulate. No one "follows" them. Not too many know their name. But Jesus sees them. They are the sparrows falling. 

But these are the ones who can more easily enter the kingdom. Like Lazarus begging in the street and finding rest with Abraham, the kingdom of God is where their minds can be renewed, their wounds healed, where they can be cleansed and fed, where they can experience joy and friendship.

It is to these that we are drawn...the poor in spirit. Perhaps, with them, I can realize my own poverty too and with them, live and lean into the kingdom of heaven.

Volunteer Matt faithfully serves at the 9th Street Cafe