Those Who Mourne (Matthew 5:4)
On the surface this may seem like mourning in the sense of having experienced a loss. However, the people mentioned here are not mourning the loss of a loved one, they are expressing a deep regret over the circumstances they find themselves in because of sin. Having realised that they are spiritually poor and, are in need of Christ, they grieve over all that they have done.
David lamented after Nathan spoke to him regarding his actions towards Bathsheba and Uriah (Psalm 51:1-4).
The tax collector was sorrowful, at the temple (Luke 18:9-13).
The prodigal son was repentant over his decision to leave home (Luke 15:17-19).
Recognising that we have done wrong is not enough, we need to also have regret over what we have done (1 Corinthians 5:2)
The Blessing
The promise for those who mourne, is that they will be comforted. This comfort is in the fact that your sins have been forgiven.
Looking back at the examples above:
The prodigal son expected to meet with a father who was disappointed with him. But his father met him with open arms, he was met with joy and celebration (Luke 15:22-24)
The tax collector, someone who was hated by the people, went home justified because he admitted his wrongdoing, approaching the altar in humility (Luke 18:14)
The Corinthians were grieved by the letter that Paul had sent, detailing their errors. This grief led to repentance, and in repentance, they found vindication, an eagerness and desire towards the things of God, a fear of sin and anger towards their own foolishness (2 Corinthians 7:8-11)
There is always a place of comfort and love for those who humbly accept that they have sinned and recognise that they can only find hope in God.
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