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The Beatitudes

 On this Sunday when many churches hear the Beatitudes as part of the Gospel proclamation, I always remember my friend and distant cousin, Gurdon Brewster.  As a Union Theological Seminary student in 1961, Gurdon was invited by Martin Luther King, Jr. to be a summer assistant at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. He told the story of his first night at dinner in the home of Martin Luther King, Sr.

Dr. King, Sr., announced that at the service later that evening, their guest would be the preacher - and told Gurdon that he would have 45 minutes to preach.

Not only was this a surprise - but Gurdon had never preached before. . . and certainly not for 45 minutes! Of course, he could not turn down such an invitation from his host, but he decided right then that he would use the Beatitudes as his text since they would provide many points to develop. [More about Gurdon Brewster: About the Sculptor: Gurdon Brewster]

My own earliest experience with the Beatitudes was having to memorize them - I believe I was in the 5th grade. I could remember all of them but found it difficult to keep them in order! It was always a relief to come to the end, even if that verse was the longest, so here's to you Gurdon:

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for than shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when men revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for my [Jesus'] sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets who were before you.

_______________________________________



 . . . and to you cousin America "Mec" Clemens, one of the pure in heart, may you always see God


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