This week’s theme: The Be-Attitudes, part II
The first portion of the Sermon on the Mount is known as the Beatitudes, which means “The Blessings”. We can also look at them as “be – attitudes” – the attitudes or behaviours that Christians should strive to live out, or “be.” In the Beatitudes, Jesus is giving examples of how his followers should behave towards each other, and the goals we should work towards in order to bring about Gods’ kingdom on Earth. Throughout our lives we try to grow into these character traits – they are habits and goals of all Christians. Unlike the ‘Spiritual Gifts’, where we can have just one or several, these attitudes aren’t exactly optional. We have a responsibility to do our best to live out each and every one of these spiritual attributes. If someone claims to be a Christian, but doesn’t aspire to manifest any of these traits, they might need to reconsider their commitment to Christ-like living. On the other hand, if someone claims to have mastered all these attributes…well, one could be (silently) but legitimately, a little skeptical! These are life-long goals – not a checklist to accomplish after which you can declare yourself to have a Master of Attitudes.
This week’s Gospel passage – Matthew 5:1-12
Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them.
He said:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Questions to ponder while reading this passage:
- What does it mean to be “blessed” according to the world’s standards, and how does that differ from Jesus’ definition of blessedness in the Beatitudes? How do these ‘blessings’ challenge our modern understanding of success and happiness?
- What are the Beatitudes – ie: are they conditional statements or unconditional promises or something else entirely?
- Which of the Beatitudes do you find most challenging to live out, and why?
- Which of the Beatitudes encourages and/or inspires you? Why?
Sunday’s Bulletin