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John O'Donohue was a renowned Irish poet, philosopher, theologian, and former Catholic priest from County Clare. In his book A Space Between Us, he writes that to be blessed is to have a…
"Circle of light" drawn around you that protects, heals, and strengthens. It is an invocation of divine grace that illuminates situations, turning "dead walls" into windows, and acting as a gentle, nourishing force that connects us to the "invisible neighborhood of loving kindness".
O’Donohue goes on to say that a blessing changes the atmosphere of a situation, allowing a person to see themselves and their circumstances in a new, brighter, and more sacred light. Being blessed involves recognizing the "presence, power, and light of your soul" and knowing you are never truly alone. O'Donohue believed that individuals possess the power to bless one another, which is a key to navigating life's thresholds with courage and heart. The act of giving a blessing is reciprocal; a blessing given returns to enfold the giver.
I was blessed to be poor. While it may seem unconventional to view difficult circumstances through a lens of gratitude, the challenges I faced gave rise to a profound sense of connection and belonging. I identified with “the least of these”—my people, my tribe. Their struggles only served to magnify their resilience and strength, inspiring me in ways I never imagined. Instead of focusing on hardship, I embraced the beauty of community, finding solace in shared experiences and an unwavering spirit. It was abundantly clear to me that God was among us, and I could relate to a God who came near. This blessing has continually shaped my worldview, igniting a sense of purpose and a calling that guides me forward.
The word “blessed” (Greek, makarios) punctuates the beatitudes like a drum: Blessed are the meek; blessed are the poor in spirit; blessed are those who mourn. But what does it mean to be “blessed”? Some suggest “fortunate” best conveys the idea, for it describes a valuable gift that cannot be earned. Others have translated makarios as “happy,” because it satisfies the soul with inexpressible joy. But no single English word captures its beauty, depth, and nuance.
However helpful a definition may be, it must yield to the full-orbed, biblical conception of blessedness offered to us in the Beatitudes, and the loving God who so freely blesses. In this fallen world, it’s the wealthy, the charming, and the strong who are exalted. But Jesus shows us that God’s heart—full of steadfast love and faithfulness—extends to the weak, the vulnerable, and the awkward. Therefore, “blessed” is the tangible gift of God’s loving embrace, an identity in Christ that experiences life as it ought to be—“as in heaven.” It’s the way of Christ’s kingdom, here and now, and an unexpected turn that explodes like fireworks throughout his teaching.
This Sunday, we start a four-part series on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. This is Jesus’ longest record of teaching and offers powerful insights and wisdom about living in the kingdom, both now and in the divine “not yet.’ Read these scriptures, meditate on them, and join me on Sunday mornings as we explore and experience them in worship.
Matthew 5: 1-11 Called to Be Blessed
Matthew 5: 15-20 The Hard Truth
Matthew 6:5-13 The Disciples' Prayer
Matthew 7: 24-28 Astounded
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