The Attitude of Beatitude

The beatitudes are familiar verses in the bible. They form the broad principles of Christian life.  They are revolutionary in their stance; far reaching in their scope; penetrating in their depth and sublime in meaning. The beatitudes challenge us to identify who we are and prioritise what we value.

In the  beatitudes, Jesus attempts to give us a portrait of a true Christian life.  He teaches us  the attitude we need to acquire to be happy and fulfilled in life.  Jesus indicates the clear path that leads to salvation.

We need to note carefully that the blessedness of the beatitudes is from God's perspective and not from perspective of the world.  The Christian who practices the virtues of the beatitudes is blessed even if the external circumstances of his life do not suggest that he is happy.

The poor, the meek and those who mourn can hardly be considered happy by the world .  Yet Jesus declares them happy.  The beatitudes give exactly what they promise-happiness, joy and salvation. Our happiness in life will depend on the extent we acquire the attitude of beatitudes.

How Do You Want To Be Remembered?

There is a desire in the heart of every human being to be remembered after death.  As one grows older, this desire grows stronger.  As we approach the twilight of life, we are concerned about how we want to be remembered.

The Gospel remembers one of the disciples of Jesus as "the disciple whom Jesus loved. "(Jn 21:20)  What a beautiful way to be remembered! Tradition believes this disciple is John.  Of course, Jesus loved all the disciples.  But it appears Jesus had a special love for John.  It is also undeniably true that John loved Jesus. John's love, affection and loyalty to Jesus was unmistaken. He is remembered as the closest friend and disciple of Jesus.

Sadly another disciple is also remembered in the bible for all the wrong reasons.  Judas is remembered in the bible as "the one who would betray Jesus."(Matt 26:25).  The legacy of Judas is greed, betrayal and tragedy.

The way we live now will determine how we will be remembered.  The choices we are making or not making will determine our legacy.  What we do or refuse to do will go a long way to shape how history will remember us.

History will be gracious to us if we assist people and make this world a better place.  We will continue to live on in the hearts and memory of the people we have helped.  Those who lived selfless life will never be forgotten.  They will live forever in the memory of their loved ones and admirers.