We often think of blessings as a monetary increase, a long-awaited vacation, or front-row parking at the grocery store. I would gladly accept all of those blessings right now. But when we turn to Matthew 5:3–12, Jesus gives us a very different picture of what it means to be blessed. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are…