Making our way up the mountain takes another challenging step: “blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

A number of thoughts are key to this step. The thought is expressed from a past tense perspective. Jesus talks about those who have been persecuted. This is an enduring step exemplified by the fact a leader has come through the fires of the trial successfully and remained true to their purpose.

Additionally, an interesting thought is connected to understanding the purpose for which one is persecuted: the sake of righteousness.

If we remember the idea expressed a few weeks back about those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness,” this idea presents an interesting thought.

Those who have been persecuted for the sake of justice, i.e. the desire to care enough to stand up against the injustices of the world is a powerful thought in a culture that seeks its own selfish desires.

May we as leaders represent those who continue to endure hardship for the sake of what is right and just in the sight of God.