Two lists of Beatitudes
I just can’t delete this messages without sharing to all of you. Thanks to Fr. Rudy Horst for these very inspiring words. This is also in relation to the previous Bible readings posted here. Please continue rreading;
The Greek philosopher Aristotle wrote, “Happiness is that which everybody seeks.” He also observes that everything people do is what they believe will bring them happiness. But the problem is that what we think will bring us happiness does not in fact always bring us true and lasting happiness. So Aristotle says that the ethical person knows and does what can truly bring them not just excitement but true and lasting happiness.
Another word for true and lasting happiness is “blessedness” or “beatitude.” In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shows that He wants His followers to have true and lasting happiness, the happiness that the world cannot give. The eight beatitudes constitute a road map for anyone seeking to attain this true happiness.
If the world were asked to draw up the “Beatitudes of the 21st Century,” we would get a list very different from that which Jesus gives.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit” would become “Blessed are the rich.”
“Blessed are those who mourn” would become “Blessed are those having fun.”
“Blessed are the meek” would become “Blessed are the smart.”
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” would become “Blessed are those who wine and dine.”
“Blessed are the merciful” would become “Blessed are the powerful.”
“Blessed are the pure in heart” would become “Blessed are the slim in body.”
And so on…
We see that Jesus’ values are counter-cultural. We cannot accept His teachings and at the same time accept all the values of our society. The question for us today, therefore, is this: “Do we live our lives following the values of the world as a way of attaining happiness or do we live by the teachings of Jesus? If you live by the teachings of Jesus, then “rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.” Fr. Rudy Horst, SVD
Reflection Question:
Where do I seek true happiness? Do I look for it in the wrong places?
Lord, I feel that I am still far from attaining the happiness You intend for me. Cleanse my heart and mind so that I will be able to follow You and hear You one day say to me, “Blessed are you.”
St. Savina, pray for us.
