In The Silence of My Soul

In The Silence of My Soul…

Each morning, as I seek inspiration for these devotions, the echoes of Grandfather’s wisdom resonate within me. He possessed a rare ability to unveil the hidden depths of Scripture to illuminate the subtle nuances that often escape our notice.

Today, my heart turns to the Sermon on the Mount, a cornerstone of Christ’s teachings. I’m mindful that I’m sharing these reflections with a group of fellow believers, individuals I’ve yet to meet, who know only a fragment of my story – a glimpse into the harsh realities of the Vietnam War.

The Sermon on the Mount, with its profound pronouncements on blessedness, righteousness, and love, offers a stark contrast to the chaos and brutality I witnessed. “Blessed are the peacemakers,” Jesus says. In a world torn apart by conflict, these words carry immense weight.

How do we cultivate peace in the midst of turmoil? How do we extend mercy when we have witnessed the depths of human cruelty?

Grandfather taught me that the Sermon is not merely a list of ethical guidelines; it’s a revelation of God’s heart. He emphasized the inward transformation that must precede outward action.

Jesus speaks of purity of heart, of hungering and thirsting for righteousness, of loving our enemies. These are not easy commands; they demand a radical shift from our perspective.

The battlefields of Vietnam taught me the fragility of life and the pervasiveness of suffering. Yet, even in those dark hours, I clung to the hope found in Christ’s words. The Sermon on the Mount reminded me that true strength lies not in retaliation but in forgiveness. It taught me that even in the face of unspeakable horrors, the seeds of love and compassion can still take root.

As we delve into these teachings, let us not merely analyze them intellectually but allow them to penetrate the depths of our souls. Let us strive to live out the principles of the Sermon, not as a burden, but as a path to true freedom and joy. May we find the courage to be peacemakers, the grace to extend mercy, and the strength to love unconditionally.

The highlight of the Sermon on the Mount is considered to be the “Beatitudes,” a series of blessings that emphasize the importance of a humble and compassionate heart, including being “poor in spirit,” “mourning,” “meek,” “merciful,” and “pure in heart,” which are found in Matthew 5:3-12

Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts open to your Word. We thank you for the wisdom of Grandfather and for the enduring power of the Sermon on the Mount. Lord, help us to understand the deeper truths hidden within these teachings. Grant us the courage to live out your commands, to be peacemakers in a world of conflict, and to extend mercy to those who have wronged us. In the midst of our struggles, remind us of your unwavering love and the hope found in your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us, Lord, to live a life that reflects your glory and to be a light in the darkness. Amen.

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼