Things Jesus Never Said
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10
Happiness is something that everyone wants. Many would say, “Everyone deserves to be happy.” Even our country’s own declaration of independence states that it is a self-evident truth that all men are endowed by their Creator with an unalienable right to pursue happiness.
Is it true that nothing matters, “as long as you’re happy”? Do you know what makes me happy? An extra-large all-meat pizza. Sugar makes me happy. A 42-ounce Coca-Cola makes me happy. Those things could provide temporary happiness, but that doesn’t mean they are healthy. Taking medicine doesn’t make me happy. Neither does exercising or lifting weights. Eating a salad doesn’t make me happy. But these are healthier choices for me.
Jesus, in His sermon on the mount, repeatedly uses the word “blessed” to describe His followers. That word can mean happy. It seems contradictory. Happy are the poor in spirit, happy are the meek, happy are the persecuted… but it’s true. We are blessed, we are happy when we are His disciples. This happiness is ours when we repent of our sins and trust in Christ for righteousness.
As the world applies it the phrase, “as long as you’re happy” is nonsense. We live in a vale of tears. The happiness the world provides is fleeting. Not being happy is used as an excuse for sin. True happiness is ours as Christ’s disciples. Only Jesus can provide true and lasting happiness. In Jesus, even when we are poor, mourning, or persecuted, we are still happy!
Our happiness, in this world, is not guaranteed. Rather, our happiness is guaranteed in the world to come. Your happiness is won for you by Jesus. True happiness is being dead to sin, and alive to righteousness. Happiness is being forgiven in Christ. Happiness is being justified by grace through faith. Jesus is the One who makes us truly and eternally happy.
O happy day and yet far happier hour,
When wilt thou come at last,
When fearless to my Father's love and pow'r,
Whose promise standeth fast,
My soul I gladly render?
For surely will His hand
Lead her with guidance tender
To heav'n, her fatherland.
The Lutheran Hymnal 619:2