Jesus described the blessedness of those who mourn when He promised, “they will be comforted” (Mat.5:4). Among the reasons for their mourning is probably the persecution they will suffer for righteousness’ sake (vv.10-12). But the reason for their mourning may not be so much over their suffering, but over the sinfulness of those who cause their suffering. If there is a relationship between this beatitude and the one which precedes it, then the mourning may also be the result of spiritual poverty (vs.3). The poor in spirit mourn their sinful condition even as they hunger and thirst for righteousness (vs.6). These blessed mourners will ultimately experience God’s comfort when the kingdom of heaven comes and they will be forever in His presence.

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away” (Revelation 21:4).