‘Happy are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.’

We may wonder at the phrase ‘poor in spirit’. Does it mean depressed, downtrodden, crushed in spirits? No. It means those people who have a firm trust in God; those who believe that whatever trials and vicissitudes befall them, God is in there somewhere. This entrenched faith and trust in God does not come with a short prayer, but gradually strengthens over years of prayer and trust in his love.

A famous speaker, renowned all over Europe for his eloquence, came to a city cathedral to preach. There was great expectation as he climbed up to the pulpit. His sermon was simple: ‘My brothers and sisters, never lose faith in God. Never lose faith in God.’ He then descended. The congregation pondered his words, and many took them to heart.