Love Letter from Jesus (Matthew 5 &6)

Beloved,
 
I want the best for you and I am what's best for you. 

I am rich but for your sake, became poor.  I mourned and was comforted. I’m gentle and meek and the earth is mine. I hunger and thirst for righteousness and am satisfied. I am merciful and extend mercy to you. My heart is pure and I enjoy deep fellowship with our Father. I am a peacemaker—my message is the Gospel of Peace.
 
Blessed and happy are you when you do as I do! It’ll hurt at times. You will be misunderstood, reviled, even threatened—but don’t be intimidated. This is evidence of our connection. You will see my faithfulness. 
 
You are salt so preserve truth and make the world more palatable for everyone you encounter.
 
You are light and cannot be hidden. So shine!
 
I have done more than uphold the law—I’ve fulfilled it. Join me in this adventure.
 
You remember they said, “don’t murder?” In my kingdom, we don’t even think hateful thoughts. Seek reconciliation. Befriend your enemy. Bring peace to a world set on war.
 
You remember they said, “don’t be unfaithful?” In my kingdom, we would sooner be blind or disabled than use our bodies to take from another.  We’re a devoted, incorruptible, unwavering lot.
 
Honor marriage—yours and others.
 
Honor integrity.

Give freely to the one who asks. 
 
Make peace with your enemies. The ones in your family, at school, at work, online. How? Pray for them—even when they hurt you.

Call out to Our Father, who is holy.  His kingdom is here. Pray His will would be revered on earth the same  way it's revered in heaven. Ask Him to meet your needs and forgive you when you fall short. Forgive others. Pray for rescue.

Give me your heart and I will hold your treasure. 
 
This is my way. And you are mine. God is good to all, allowing His sun to rise on just and unjust people—so imitate your Father. Shine. If you show compassion to those who reciprocate—is that even love? Nearly anyone can do that. A characteristic of my people is they show mercy, forgiveness and sacrificial love to all--especially their enemies. 
 
Pursue humility. Let your Father in heaven reward you for living the kingdom lifestyle. Resist the temptation to virtue signal. If you do, “likes” on your Facebook feed will be your only reward—and we’ve got greater things in store for you.
 
Talk to me, a lot—but not in a way that intimidates or impresses those within earshot. Speak to me, like you love me.
 
Remember to fast. It’s a profound way to invite God’s presence into your life but do it joyfully!
 
Can we talk about money? Wealth? Asset management? Beware. Many people, greater than you, have had their eyes and hearts darkened by greed. It’s impossible to serve God and money. So pick me…and while you’re at it, give me your anxiety too. I know you’re afraid and I want you to know, I’m with you. Always.
 
Don’t worry about what you’re making for dinner, what diet you need to try, what jeans are most flattering. Life is so much more than food and drink and clothes. I promise, I know you need these things. But more than another pair of shoes, dinner at your favorite restaurant or even a strong cup of coffee—you need me. You really do.
 
Seek me first by following in my footsteps.
 
Trust my words. Trust my love.  
 
I am the way,
-Jesus 

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