Beatitudes: A Way of Living

by Dr. James R. Brooks, Lead Minister at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Edwardsville, IL

Want to get the most from the impending holiday season?  How about getting even more from the relationships that mean the most for you?  What of experiencing more of each day?

Why do martyrs do that they do?  You know - gladly professing their love of Jesus in the face of torture and death.  What are they seeing that inspires them so?  I want that for me and mine!

Jesus had a funny saying - those who save their lives actual lose their lives.  Similar is true of the Beatitudes.

The Beatitudes are A Way (Matthew 5:1-12) was part of my sermon this past Sunday.  After the sermon I kicked myself (almost literally) for not sharing more practical thoughts.  Here are the practical thoughts I wish were in that sermon.

Practical Methods of living the Beatitudes:

1.  Experience loss (Matthew 5:4) - intentionally deny yourself something over time ... soda, tv, dessert, texting, social media, soap operas, elevators, etc ... invest that time in listening for God’s voice and reflecting upon your experience of loss - when something was removed from your daily experience what did you seek to fill that time / space / void? 

2.  Create Change (Matthew 5:6)  - alter your routine, re-arrange your desk, walk to work, fold the laundry differently, set the table uniquely ... reflect upon your experience of this controlled change, then upon change that is uncontrolled, then upon the space / energy it creates in your life for God and your neighbor ... new found empathy for those who cannot control the circumstances of change?  

3.  Offer Peace (Matthew 5:9) - Read Luke 10 while looking for the offering and receiving of “peace”, Ruminate on the impact of your language for or against peace with those you love or tolerate, Do you feel closer or further form God when you intend peace each day? 

4.  Thankful Tithe (Matthew 5:11-12) - After experiencing loss, change and peace ... do you feel thankful?  Does feeling thankful inspire your giving to God and others?  Giving of time, talent and treasure?  

These are but a few practical and early ways to living the Beatitudes.  The Desert Fathers and Mothers of the 3rd century CE took this lifestyle to awe inspiring heights of experiencing God and neighbor.  

Your days can be magical ... don’t settle for the ruts and rituals that grind life into dust.