Blessed are the poor in spirit ; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3
Yes, I know this verse has nothing to do with worldly wealth or spiritual deficiency. But, I immediately thought of it when Trump came out with the following statement at an ego rally in Iowa.
“I just don’t want a poor person in top economic roles.” Donald J. Trump
I could discuss politics with you until the cows come home, but that is not my blog’s intent. Suffice it to say that possibly ‘the poor’ could add a great insight to an otherwise sightless administration.
In the verse attributed to Jesus by the book of Matthew, “poor” is translated from the Greek word “ptochos” meaning beggar or pauper. In attempting to think as Jesus may have thought we could view the “poor in spirit” not as unenlightened or ignorant, but, as those who have become voluntarily bankrupt in ego, i.e., poor in ego, and are absolutely dependent on God for every need. Just like a beggar with cup in hand, totally in need of alms, the one who relies not on “I” or “me” but rather on the grace and graciousness of a Higher Power has attained an attitude that surrenders control to the One who is in control. This attitude is the kingdom of heaven cited in Matthew 5:3.
(refer to Ethan Walker 3rd, “THE MYSTIC CHRIST”)
lpb quest - the twilight dance 
How do we know this passage has nothing to do with worldly wealth? The version in Luke is more direct, saying simply, blessed are the poor. Then there’s the rich man and the eye of the needle. Money is the root of all manner of evil. Jesus had no worldly possessions. The New Testament is very consistent in noting the moral hazard of wealth. Given this, wouldn’t the most reasonable understanding of the poor in spirit be people whose spirits are not inclined to earthly wealth?
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Sorry, I don’t buy that
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