The Beatitudes

The Beatitudes are very significant to the Christian way of life. In fact Pope Benedict XVI, states that the Beatitudes are more than just guidelines that Jesus taught but the Beatitudes are gifts from the Lord. These gifts, if followed attentively, will lead an individual into the secure Kingdom of God; which is the most rewarding gift of all.

Pope Benedict XVI critically analyzes the Beatitudes that Jesus told from the Sermon on the Mount in the Gospel of Matthew chapter five. First, Benedict confirms that the Beatitudes are not superior to the Ten Commandments. The Beatitudes are teachings that enrich the understanding of the Ten Commandments. Pope Benedict goes on to define the Beatitudes as “transformation of values.” He explains that the Beatitudes purpose is to serve as a reminder that we as humans are sinner and that the Beatitude provides us with hope of salvation.

Benedict explains that the Beatitudes are more than practical teachings but the Beatitudes are also theological attributes for the disciples of Christ (p. 71). Benedict describes disciples of Christ as poor, hungry, weeping men; who are persecuted because for their love for Jesus Christ (p. 71). Therefore, following the Beatitudes are Christians’ crosses to bear. As disciples of Christ we should be willing to live by the Beatitudes because Christ himself lived by them.

Our Holy Father also states that the Beatitudes are also vital in keeping the church thriving. In order to do so however, as members of this holy family it is our obligation to keep the Beatitudes alive by living as Christ’s lived them. We must humble ourselves and always be ready to serve like Christ (p. 77).

In Conclusion, Pope Benedict XVI says that “When man begins to see and live from God’s perspective…Jesus brings joy into the midst of affliction.” Living lvy Christ example is not an easy task. However, in the end it is the only way that will give Christians endless happiness.