Education Week October The Beatitudes (Matthew 5: 3-10)

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1 NORES Supporting Catholic Education and Formation Education Week October 2016 The Beatitudes (Matthew 5: 3-10) Daily Reflections for Staff Introduction

2 During the Sermon on the Mount (Matt ) Jesus teaches us the Beatitudes and through them he calls us to a new way of living. The word beatitude comes from the word blessing which, in turn, comes from the latin word beatus Pope Francis described the Beatitudes as the identity card of a Christian The principles Jesus highlights are the opposite to what the world would have us believe. Jesus promises that a God centred, selfless life style brings blessedness, a special joy and happiness from God. The Beatitudes show us the path that God indicates as an answer to our inherent desire for happiness. Pope Francis encourages us to imprint these beatitudes on our hearts. What follows is a short reflection on each beatitude with a simple response and prayer.

3 Reflection: Day 1 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven Poor in spirit means not being attached to all the things that we have. It s great to enjoy our possessions and to thank God for all he has given us. But these things don t really make us happy. When we free ourselves from all that we have we are in a better position to seek the Kingdom of God and to live in that kingdom every day. What can I thank God for? How can I detach myself from all the worldly goods around me? Lord Jesus, help me to grow in my trust in you.

4 Reflection: Day 2 Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted Mourning is when we re really sad about something. When we are sad for whatever reason, we can be happy because we can feel God s loving arms around us through our family and friends. How can those who cry be happy? Lord Jesus, help me to comfort those who are sad.

5 Day 3 Blessed are the meek, they shall inherit the earth Reflection: To be meek is to be patient and not think too highly of ourselves. It s not about getting our own way by using violence or bullying but about being gentle with all those we meet. How meek am I? Lord Jesus, give me the grace to be meek.

6 Day 4 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, they shall be satisfied Reflection: Being righteous is doing the right thing. We can only do our best so if, at times, we don t do the right thing we can ask for God s forgiveness. Jesus asks us not only to be righteous but to hunger and thirst for it. When do I hunger for righteousness? Lord Jesus, help me to know the right thing to do and give me the courage to stand up for what is right every day.

7 Reflection: Day 5 Blessed are the merciful, for they shall have mercy shown them To have Mercy is to be loving, kind and forgiving to others. Not just to those who love you but to those people you don t get on with or who don t like you. To show mercy is to not hold a grudge against someone for something unkind they have done to you. How can I show kindness to those I don t get on with? Lord Jesus, help me to accept your forgiveness and to be an instrument of your boundless mercy to others.

8 Day 6 Blessed are the pure in heart, they shall see God Reflection: Always do what is right. Every day we make choices and decisions that affect ourselves and others. Being pure in heart means always making a good choice. In this way we get to know God more and more each day. What good choice did I make today? Lord Jesus, help me to be pure in heart in all that I do and in my relationship with others.

9 Day 7 Blessed are the peacemakers, they shall be called the children of God Reflection: All too often it s easy to spread misunderstanding and discord. The simplest comment spoken in gossip causes nothing but division. Being a peacemaker is about looking for ways to solve problems peacefully and not just add to an argument. How can I remember to choose my words carefully today? Lord Jesus, help me to speak words which build up, value, protect and encourage others.

10 Day 8 Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of right, theirs is the kingdom of heaven Reflection: So many people in our world today are persecuted and treated badly. Jesus encourages us to hold fast to the truth and to speak out against injustice. When do I take the opportunity to speak out against injustice? Lord Jesus, help me to hold on to what is true and to stand up for what is right.

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12 NORES is the Office for Religious Education, Evangelisation, Catechesis and Schools in the Diocese of Northampton. 33 Westbourne Road Luton LU4 8JD Registered Charity: