Association Of Catholic Bloggers

Where the Ten Commandments tell us, for the most part, what not to do, the Beatitudes tell us how to live in a Christ-like manner. They highlight all the good virtues that we should possess. The Beatitudes serve us well. Virtues Associated with the Beatitudes Humility : “Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 5:3). Caring/Compassion : “Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted (Matt 5:4). Meekness : “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land” (Matt 5:5). Justice : “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied” (Matt 5:6). Mercy : “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matt 5:7). Piety :  “Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God (Matt 5:8). Peace : “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God” (Matt 5:9). Faith : “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingd...

A lot of people see meekness as some sort of weakness. However, meekness has its moments. Sometimes, it is better to be kind that to be right. Therefore, sometimes its better to bite one’s tongue, rather than coming across as assertive, aggressive and arrogant. Such traits are unbecoming, yet many consider them as points of strength. I say otherwise. Coming across as assertive, aggressive and arrogant takes very little self-control.  On the other hand, expressing meekness takes great amounts of self-control and inner strength. Therefore, it is wise to embrace meekness. Exploring Meekness Meekness can be defined as exhibiting docility in communicating with others, bearing the pain of unjust suffering for the glory of God. For example, a coworker decides to point out the flaws of your work at an open staff meeting, without ever coming to speak with you beforehand, privately. Of course, you feel humiliated, but how would you act outwardly? The assertive, aggressive and arrogan...

In today’s Gospel reading from Matt 5:1-12, we hear Jesus teach about the Beatitudes. I am quite partial to the Beatitudes, as they embody virtue. As you all know, virtue is my “thing.” When we look at each one of the Beatitudes, we see that they are actually God’s gift of grace. That is because, to master the Beatitudes, we must embrace virtue. To embrace virtue, we need God’s grace. The Beatitudes – Jesus’ Way! To be poor in spirit, one must embrace and exemplify   humility If you are one who mourns, you are   compassionate Meekness is obvious. Yet to be   meek , one requires great strength ( fortitude ). If you hunger and thirst for righteousness, you embody   justice Merciful is obvious, like meekness. However, to be   merciful,   to the extent necessary, one must be ready to also   forgive ... Read more...