The Beatitudes: A Charter for Disciples

Jesus went up the mountain, sat down, and began to teach: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Eight times he says “blessed” — happy, fortunate — about people the world usually pities.

Not rules but a portrait

The Beatitudes are less a list of commands than a portrait of Jesus himself: poor, meek, merciful, pure of heart, a peacemaker, persecuted for righteousness. To live them is to grow into his likeness.

A Franciscan reading

Francis took the first beatitude literally. Lady Poverty, as he called her, was not misery but freedom: having nothing to defend, he could welcome everyone.

Prayer this week

Choose one beatitude each day. In the evening, ask where you saw it lived — in yourself or in someone else.