Article June 29, 1968 Issue

"The poor in spirit"

JACQUELINE L. KRANZ

Christ Jesus began his great sermon, which has been called the Sermon on the Mount, with the words that might be said to have been the heart of his life message: "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matt. 5:3; Throughout his life he pointed this out by example, by word, by parable. Success, contentment, spirituality, come not with Pharisaical pride but through receptiveness to good and selflessness.

Mrs. Eddy, speaking in an allegory of the state of thought of those who do not understand the message of this great beatitude, says, "They have small conceptions of spiritual riches, few cravings for the immortal, but are puffed up with the applause of the world." Miscellaneous Writings, p. 325;

Most of us desire the kingdom of heaven; few wish to be classed with those of whom Mrs. Eddy speaks. Yet a person often seems beset with an intense human desire to be thought better than others. It is a desire that is cast out through an understanding of the truth Jesus expressed, "I can of mine own self do nothing." John 5:30; He was so conscious of his unity with the Father that all succeeding centuries have bowed in recognition of the mighty majesty and accomplishment of his lifework. When we know that Mind maintains each individual in his right place to express His glory, competition, fear, and pride are gently eliminated.

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