Teachings of Jesus Muestra

Blessed by Mercy

The Greek word translated as “blessed” is makarios. It describes complete fulfillment in life, an enduring condition rather than fleeting happiness.

As Jesus launches into the Beatitudes to tell us how to be “blessed” (makarios), it is crucial for us to know that He uses a literary device called a chiasm—wherein the most essential elements are found in the middle. The verses at the center of the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:6–7, are the main message of the chiasm: Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness; blessed are the merciful. 

Jesus is establishing His Kingdom on a foundation of both righteousness and mercy. They can be said to be two sides of the Kingdom coin or compared to the vertical and horizontal aspects of the cross: Righteousness is a focus on God, and mercy is a focus on others.

The righteousness that Jesus describes is social harmony, similar to the harmony found in the championship team. Righteousness implies a right way that is chosen rather than imposed; it can also be translated as justice.

We tend to desire justice for others and mercy for ourselves. But in Jesus’ Kingdom, when people are merciful, they are blessed because they too shall receive mercy. 

Rather than a substitute, mercy is a complement to righteousness. They go together. Righteousness (harmony) comes about because we are merciful and seek to lead others to follow God’s ways for their benefit.

The social harmony His Kingdom provides is unlike anything the world offers. It is the byproduct of truth and grace. We don’t compromise Kingdom standards. Instead, we recognize that God’s standards are provided for the benefit of the community.

The kingdoms of the earth focus on dominion and control over others. They stoke offense, which is a focus on self. But the Kingdom of Heaven encourages us to find the good life through serving one another in love (Galatians 5:13). Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness find mercy and are blessed with ultimate happiness as a result.

Jesus, thank You for the blessings You promised those who are merciful and hunger and thirst for righteousness.