I am a Jesus pusher!!! Hungering and thirsting for righteousness is a natural for persecution. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake” (Matthew 5:10). This will constantly expand in and through your life as you are filled only to hunger and thirst for more of Him. Living in a state of mercy naturally extends mercy. This is who Jesus is in your life. Will this be viewed with kindness by a merciless world? Is not the pure in heart the one who craves for righteousness? It can only be experienced because this one has eyesight clear enough to see Jesus. Peacemakers are people of peace. Oh, how blessed to dwell in the peace of Jesus and extend that peace to others. But it is not peace at any cost. Persecution is inevitable.
Do not be self-focused. In your self-sourcing, you might take persecution personally. You might then feel guilt; what have I done? Why am I not liked? I have done my best and yet I am still not accepted. If you are self-focused then this Beatitude does not apply to you. This is persecution of which Jesus is the cause. Could I propose this persecution becomes a badge, an announcement, or verification of your intimacy with Jesus? Is there any greater privilege than being like Him? Is there any greater privilege than being an extension of His redemption to the world? Persecution becomes the platform for the expression of the love of Christ. This is the redeeming factor that moves the heart of the world. You and I are called to such an experience. But it is not persecution; it is your attitude! Jesus calls us to “rejoice and be exceedingly glad” (Matthew 5:12). He is worthy! I am a Jesus pusher!!!