The Great Reversal
Fourth Sunday of Epiphany
February 1, 2026 8:00 am
Scripture
Matthew 5:1-12
Meditation
The Beatitudes are the doorway to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. As the crowds gather from around the region, Jesus sees their need and begins to bless His disciples in ways that are out of this world. It stands to reason because Jesus sees life on this side of heaven through a heavenly lens. His words of blessing give us a new perspective and allow us a glimpse into the world to come.
Each blessing overturns ordinary assumptions about who is blessed in the kingdom of heaven. Instead of blessings being born from positions of power, wealth, or status, Jesus blesses the poor in spirit, the mourners, the meek, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and those who are persecuted for righteousness. It’s the great reversal. God takes those things that the world deems unworthy and fills them with power from His hand.
Prayer
King Jesus, You who wear no crown of gold, but instead You wear a crown of thorns that shows Your humble suffering. We come before You with open hands and open hearts, asking only for Your blessing. May the blessings of Your Kingdom grow within us—softening pride, deepening compassion, and anchoring us in the peace that only You can give.