“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 5:3

The poor in spirit are those who reach the end of themselves and quietly admit, “I can’t do life on my own.” Being poor in spirit isn’t about self-hatred. It’s a profound and holy emptiness. This void is what opens the door to intimacy with God. Some people seem to connect with this vulnerable truth, where there is full surrender. They get to see the kingdom bloom within them. 

Jesus asks me every day to confront my fragile self-esteem. Daily, I’m invited to be poor, to peel away fear, until all that remains is a woman standing before God with empty hands. This is never a one-time awakening but an ongoing invitation to live without pretense or striving. For me, a woman who has spent her life on a stage, fighting the flesh and the urge to perform and impress, this battle must be intentional. 

I’ve heard it said that my greatest need is not to be loved, but to love God. As I love God, I am healed of preoccupation with myself. In the quiet inner chamber of my heart, I see the disparity between God’s holiness and my own fragility. I fall in love with a Father who is drawn to my need. The more I need Him, the more He enjoys it. When I empty myself, the kingdom of heaven opens to me. 

It’s as if God says, “You who feel small, unseen, and inadequate… you belong to My Kingdom. You don’t have to achieve or even sparkle to be worthy. Your need is the door.” For anyone who lives with deep longing, this beatitude is a precious promise. The more emptied I become, the more space there is for God’s presence to dwell tenderly and powerfully.

Lord, throughout my life, you saw me throw up my hands and give up.  I was angry that I needed You.  I thought I was ‘poor in spirit.’ I wasn’t.  Thank you for helping me empty myself with gratitude.  Amen