In this Gospel, Matthew tells the story of Jesus, who is the presence of God and has come to call the faithful to a new level of righteousness. He challenges his disciples to live each day as participants in God's kingdom--be poor in spirit and pure in heart, turn the other cheek and love one's enemies. Through his teachings and healings, Jesus...

Alyce M. McKenzie is the Le Van Professor of Preaching and Worship at Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. A sought after speaker and a prolific author, she is the Director of the Perkins Center for Preaching Excellence at SMU.