The Beatitudes
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8
Among the Greeks, the word MAKARIOS was used to describe those who had risen to an enviable position in life. It is the rich, the powerful, and the famous who were considered to be MAKARIOS.
However, Jesus took this term and turned it on its head. He says that the MAKARIOI (pl.) are those who are poor, sad, meek, and merciful. These have achieved the most enviable position before God. Now, Jesus adds one more superior characteristic: purity of heart.
When we look at ourselves through the lens of the Law of God, we see impurities abounding in a frightening way. Then, our hearts condemn us. However, "if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things” (1 John 3:20).
He knows every sin, but, instead of condemning us, He says, "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).
Now, looking through the lens of the Gospel, we see that our hearts have been purified in the blood of the Son of God. So, yes, we are the pure in heart. The inner voice that condemns us is repeatedly silenced by the words of the Gospel: "Your sins are forgiven." The blood of Jesus is a constant, ongoing cleansing agent embedded in our hearts. Through faith, Christ maintains a pure heart within us.
“Blesséd are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” Here is the guaranteed outcome for the pure in heart. We will stand on the crystal clear courtyard in front of His exalted throne and gaze upon the dazzling glory of the Most High God. The sight will not kill us. It will thrill us, and we will share in that glory. What a blesséd standing we have before
our God.
We are rich, for He was poor;
Is not this a wonder?
Therefore praise God evermore
Here on earth and yonder.
The Lutheran Hymnal 97:3