It is Easter weekend, and soft pink clouds are floating in pale blue skies. That's a Niagara Easter weekend. It seems perfect for the colours that we associated with Easter - the pale pinks, yellows, greens and blues.
Our "luckiest person in the world" yesterday - he was visited by unusual events that happened by chance. We know he was lucky/unlucky. But many times we see blessings quotes that seem to be about luck or good fortune. What is the difference - could I replace blessed with lucky?
“Blessed are they who see beautiful things in humble places where other people see nothing.” – Camille Pissarro
“Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” – Charles Dickens
We see "blessings" quotes all the time. They are in the range of "count your blessings" and they seem to point to happy and fortunate, and then sometimes even to spiritual prosperity. But mostly they are gushy and sentimental.
So what is at the root of "blessings"? What came to mind for me is the Beatitudes - Matthew 5:3-12. When I was young, I recited Matthew 5:3-12 in a public speaking contest. I won the contest and then used the winnings for piano lessons, a bit ironic. The beauty of the poetry stayed with me.
Matthew 5:3-12 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
It seems I picked the right Bibical text. As I look at the Wikipedia analysis entry for the Beatitudes, I find it fascinating. I had no idea of its significance in the New Testament Christian faith - presenting "a new set of ideals that focus on love and humility rather than force and extraction. " On spirituality and compassion.
So there's my version of a Good Friday sermon. More of a reflection.
And my lesson? Leave blessed to the realm of spirituality and faith however it has evolved to current day usage. And take luck where you get it - particularly in the realm of mathematics.
Today's image comes from the Niagara Falls Greenhouse - ten years ago. I went to the greenhouse last week and it was closed, so can't tell you if there is a beautiful Easter display.
