As we have been reading through Matthew, I have been reading from NT Wright's Matthew for Everyone as a type of devotional commentary. So far, I highly recommend the book. Wright provides his own translation of the passage at hand and then writes about it. I wish I had this book when preaching through Matthew as it really is a treasure trove of illustrations and sermon starters.
I loved Wright's translation the Beatitudes so I will paste it here for you (at least the first 10 verses):
Wonderful news for the poor in spirit! The kingdom of heaven is yours!
Wonderful news for the mourners! You're going to be comforted!
Wonderful news for the meek! You're going to inherit the earth!
Wonderful news for the people who hunger and thirst for God's justice! You're going to be satisfied.
Wonderful news for the merciful! You'll receive God's mercy yourselves.
Wonderful news for the pure in heart! You will see God.
Wonderful news for the peacemakers! You will be called God's children.
Wonderful news for the people who are persecuted because of God's way! The kingdom of heaven belongs to you.
I love that Wright renders the word that is usually translated "blessed" as "wonderful news." I think that, that really communicates the meaning and the emotional intent of this passage. Great stuff. Here is a link if you are interested in finding out more about the book:
http://www.amazon.com/Matthew-Everyone-Chapters-Tom-Wright/dp/0664227864/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325792666&sr=8-1
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