It’s no accident that the “poor in Spirit” are named first in Jesus’ list of those who are blessed (or, happy) in his Sermon on the Mount. The poor in Spirit are those of us who understand that it is better to turn to God in our lack and frailty than to succumb to self-pity or anger. In a state of prayerful humility, we cease trying to design our own self-imaged gods. Rather, we turn in trust to the God who reveals our true and eternal identity, often through our difficulties. We turn our eyes in Love and Gratitude toward our God who suffers with us and for us on the cross. We see our imperfections as dim places where Divine light becomes more visible—places where God might even do his best work! With a humble spirit, we begin to experience the freedom of becoming like children—children of God the Father.
We see our imperfections as dim places where Divine light becomes more visible.
In this painting, a man journeys forward. A noisy dog barks at his heals, but his eyes only look forward. The kingdom of heaven is at the top of the mountain, but he is unconcerned with the difficulty of the journey. He only looks ahead, letting the holy Spirit—portrayed in birds—lead him onward through all the seasons of life.
“Blessed Are The Poor in Spirit” • Original painting is 16×20″ and acrylic on wood panel. It is available at The Sacred Art Gallery in Mesa, AZ.
Prints and other gifts are available in my Fine Art America-Pixels shops.
This artwork is featured in my book (and on the cover), “Arise to Blessedness” from Ave Maria Press. Also available on Amazon and Etsy.
