The word that is usually translated as "blessed" in this passage really means "happy".
We know from experience that we are happy when our heart is right. We all have an inner "EKG" that measures the peacefulness of our heart. If we don't have peace there, no amount of external comfort will compensate for it.
Jesus teaches the key to a peaceful heart: To hear the word of God and live it. Those who do this are happy. Even is their present condition is difficult, they are at peace with God.
Also among the people Jesus calls "blessed" are: The merciful, the clean of heart, the peacemakers, and those persecuted for acting rightly.
We all know people who may or may not have had an abundance of talent or material goods, but used whatever they had as well as they could. They were truly happy here on earth, and now we have confident hope that they have far more than anyone ever dreamed of.
By God's grace it's within our reach to do the same.
How's your inner EKG?
- Little Burgundy Book, Diocese of Saginaw