How would you describe “true blessedness”?  What is it about life that makes you truly happy and fulfilled?

The older I have become, the more my family rises in importance for me.  I can say that I am truly blessed to have the family I do. Even though this may be the case, is that where true blessedness is found?

I was struck this morning by something in Luke 11:27-28, which says,

“As he said these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, ‘Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed!’ But he said, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!’”

As Jesus was teaching the crowds, a woman cries out how blessed it must have been to be in the family of Jesus.  This anonymous woman is commending the son of Mary.  What a fantastic place to have grown up! 

Do you see the response of Jesus?  He does not say, “yes, I was so fortunate!”  Instead, he says the real blessing is for anyone who hears and obeys God’s Word!  He does not deny that he may have had a great family, but he is saying, in comparison to hearing and following God’s Word, the blessing one receives through being relationally connected to God is not even in the same league! This type of blessing is available to all!

Notice how Darrell Bock summarizes this scene,

“The woman’s blessing of Jesus’ mother attempts to honor his family. It was not unusual to honor a mother in that culture by the accomplishments of her sons (Gen. 49:25; Prov. 23:24–25). But Jesus transforms the remark into another opportunity to declare where real blessing in life resides—in those who hear and obey God’s Word. Like the previous illustration, Jesus is focusing on the cruciality of receiving that Word. Richness and fullness of life are not a matter of biological or social origin, but relating well to the Lord of the universe (cf. 8:19–21).”^[1]

Father, I am so thankful for my family and friends.  You have truly blessed me.  But, in comparison to knowing you and being in your family through faith in Christ alone who died for my sin, it doesn’t even compare!  Help me enjoy the friends and family you have given me but keep me laser-focused on where true blessing is found. It is in hearing and obeying your Word which allows me to enjoy my relationship with you.

Following Jesus with you,

 

Jeff

 

^[1] Darrell L. Bock, Luke, The NIV Application Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1996), 324.