Matthew in Rhyme, Chapters 5-6

Chapter 5 

v. 1 Jesus then climbed up a mount, Preaching to disciples words that count. Jesus pronounced his divine blessings For victims of persecutions so messy.   

Blessed are the spiritually poor. Up in heaven they will receive more. Blessed are those who mourn. Their grief will be borne.   

Blessed are the meek. They will receive all that they seek. Blessed are those hungry to be righteous. They will never be silenced.   

Blessed are those showing mercy. They will no longer be hurting. Blessed are those who are pure. Their ailments will be cured.   

Blessed are those who make peace. They will see violence cease. Blessed are those beaten for Jesus’ name. They will be showered with fame.   

Blessed are those who mourn  And are beaten and scorned, For they shall be uplifted With comfort gently fitted.   

                   Click on image to go to the website of First Christian Church in Mansfield, Ohio.

v. 13 Jesus told disciples they are the salt. When they get angry, they should halt.  Disciples are spice and salt.   

With flavor, they should sprightly walk. They also provide much light, Making a city so bright.

 Do not hide your lamp. In spaces that are cramped. Be sure to let your let your light shine 

With flowing language that rhymes.     

v. 17 Jesus fulfills the law. Divine principles he draws. He desires laws that are just While prohibiting urges of lust.   

v. 21 Control your anger against others, Especially your sisters and brothers. Do not throw insults before the altar.   

That will make you stumble and falter. Never use lies to purposely distort. Reconcile before you go to court.   

v. 27 Do not have eyes of lust, Or you will be thrown under the bus. Did Jesus say pluck out your eye? Yes, but he does not want you to die.   

If your hand causes you to bring harm, Then you should cut off your arm. A little slapstick so you won’t cry. Jesus does not want a heavy sigh.   

v. 31 Think twice about divorce. Leave it for the last resort.   

v. 33 Be sure not to swear On a lock of your hair. Don’t swear on heaven up above, Or on anything that you love.   

v. 38 Jesus talked of losing teeth  And turning the other cheek When someone hits you in the face  

And then wants to make a federal case, Plus takes your winter coat away, Do not be afraid.

Give them your cloak as well, Even if they yell At you to walk a mile,     

Go two miles with a smile. Following Jesus can be hard Or as tricky as a house of cards.   

At the end of the day it’s all for love. Remember, the Spirit is like a flying dove 

Chapter 6 

v. 1 Jesus said when you give alms Hide your dirty palms, Do not trumpet in the street. Do not tell anyone you meet.   

When you pray to the Lord, Shut your bedroom door. Do not heap words on top of words. God has already granted your worth.   

v. 9 Pray: Our Parent in heaven, Thank you for the leaven, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done (NRSV, v. 1).”     

You’ve given us an abundant sum, Supplying us with plenty of fun. “And forgive us our debts” (NRSV, v. 12), As we forget what we have lent.   

And please don’t you tempt. This prayer we have sent. Remember, if you forgive,  your sins will be short lived.   

v. 16 If a fast gives you a stomach-ache, Then please wash your face. Use oil to keep you fresh.

Don’t mutter beneath your breath. Do not use your fast to boast. Be kind to the dinner host.   

v. 19 Do not expose your treasure to rust. So up in heaven put your trust. Do not put it where thieves can steal. God’s word will seal the deal.   

v. 22 Pay attention to the light That enters into the eye. Prefer it over the dark. Take a walk in the park.   

v. 24 Never serve more than one boss. You cannot serve God, stocks and bonds. Do not be anxious for clothing and food.   

Your needs are met in the interlude. Birds of the air and lilies of the fields, All manage to find their shields.   

Do not worry over your threads. Fashion is no reason for dread. God provides for all creation,  

Giving reason for elation! Seek to be righteous. And do not take license.   

Don’t be in such a hurry To tend to tomorrow’s worries. Today has enough trouble   

To cause you to stumble.  With God you can rest assured That solutions will be unfurled.