One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, and he began to teach them.

“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth.
God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied.
God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.

God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Mathhew 5: 1-12 NLT

When I think about the character of Jesus, I see his compassion. He looks at the crowds following him and truly sees them.

What does Jesus see?

Those longing for hope, comfort, acceptance, equity, mercy, peace, justice—people seeking a loving God who can satisfy their longing.

What does Jesus say?

God sees you. He hears you. He will respond to your longing with satisfaction. He accepts you. He will show you mercy. He will carry out justice. Persevere in your circumstances for God will reward you with his love and draw you into his kingdom.

These are good words, words carrying life and hope to the crowds. No wonder they followed him.

How does Jesus know so much about God? He is God incarnate—fully God and fully man.

Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son. God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. Hebrews 1: 1-3 NLT

What are you longing for? Listen to the heart of God and find hope. God bless you.