"Blessed are those that hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled." ~ Mt. 5:6
"Jesus does not say, 'Blessed are those who live righteously and maintain a righteous lifestyle.' Rather he affirms, 'Blessed are those that hunger and thirst after righteousness.' The statement presupposes that righteousness is something the faithful continuously strive after. The blessed are not those who arrive, but those who continue, at whatever cost, in their pilgrimage toward a more perfect righteousness. The constant, relentless drive toward righteousness characterizes the blessed."
Then the author asks "but what exactly is righteousness?" How do YOU define or think of righteousness? What are we supposed to hunger and thirst for?
Quote from page 77 in Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels by Kenneth E. Bailey
6 comments:
I believe that is what the Holy Spirit does in us. When we open ourselves to the Spirit's will, we question and seek. We do not always arrive at a confirmed conclusion, but we continually seek. Isn't that what the quest for rightiousness is all about? Seeking what is right? Since God is right, spiritually we must seek him even if, in our physical world, we can never truly find him. Although he is all around us, he is like a theif in the night, very oblivious to our sight. Obviously we find many linkings to him and that is the chain we must continue to follow.
and me too wants to know "what is righteousness exactly ? " , cuz we are all thriving for that .
one of the most difficult questions you asked here susanne.
Righteousness is putting others before you. I think.
Hubby, welcome to my blog and thank you much for your reply to my question. I really liked what you had to say about the Spirit doing something in our lives. I'll try to post (on a separate entry) what the author said at a later date so stayed tuned and see if you agree with him. I enjoy your feedback. I've seen you on other blogs and enjoy what you have to say.
Wafa', difficult indeed! :-/
Suroor, welcome back. You've been quiet lately. I hope all is well in your house. :)
Loved your answer.
Thank you all for replying to this question!
Susanne,
This post reminded me of something I read once. Hmm...something along the lines of...
'Jesus never told his followers to be right, but righteous.'
I'd say righteousness only comes when we are in line with God's Will and Grace for us. We cannot be righteous, or do good, apart from Him, as you're so often pointing out. :)
Amber, great answer! That's how I would have answered. :)
I posted last night what the author had to say about hungering and thirsting after righteousness.
Y'all check it out and let me know if you agree or disagree with his answer.
Thanks for your replies!
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