Indifference vs. Mourning

Sometimes when I read scripture, I can hardly believe it. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus says,

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 NIV

When I read this as a boy, I said, “You must be kidding me. What is blessed about mourning?” I thought these words referred to God's comfort in life's deep sorrows. It is true that He is the God of all comfort. You and I have experienced His comfort.

However, I have since learned that many scholars interpret “mourn” differently, not  necessarily a grievous circumstance of life, but a grievous condition—our sin. Am I indifferent to my sin? Or do I grieve over my sin?

Realizing his indifference, biblical scholar William Barclay mourned over his sin. Knowing God’s choice to pay the penalty for his sin, he experienced God’s comfort great love, and mercy. Barkley said,

"It's an astonishing thing to speak of the joy of sorrow, of the gladness of grief, and of the bliss of the broken hearted.”

Oh, the blessed privilege of mourning and knowing God’s comfort.

Will you join me this week?

Sharing the journey with you,