Choose a topic from Part 2A:

69. Beatitudes

1. The beatitudes pronounced by our Lord in his sermon onthe Mount are acts rather than habits of the soul. Hence thebeatitudes differ from the virtues and from the gifts, all of whichare habits.

2. The rewards (the blessedness) promised in thebeatitudes are not exclusively for enjoyment in heaven; some ofthem at least may have a beginning in this present life. Forrewards that can be perfectly enjoyed in the perfect state of manin heaven, may, in some measure, be partially enjoyed in thepresent and imperfect state of man on earth.

3. The beatitudes are suitably enumerated in scripture.They seem to carry man from the things of sense, through the activelife, to contemplation. First, man is taught not to seek happinessin the things of sense-riches, honors, self-indulgence; he is to bepoor in spirit, meek, mourning. Next, man is directed towardshappiness in his activity with reference to his neighbor; he is tothirst after justice, he is to be merciful. Finally, man is toprepare for contemplation, for seeing God; he is to be clean ofheart, he is to be a peacemaker.

4. The rewards promised in the beatitudes-kingdom ofheaven, land (of the living), fullness of justice, mercy obtained,sight of God, full status as children of God-all these rewards areto be obtained perfectly in heaven; they are included inthe perfect happiness of heaven. It is suitable that these phasesof the perfect heavenly reward should be enumerated in thebeatitudes for our better understanding.

"God gives us some things, as the beginning of faith, even when we do not pray. Other things, such as perseverance, he has only provided for those who pray."
St Augustine

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"Though the path is plain and smooth for people of good will, those who walk it will not travel far, and will do so only with difficulty if they do not have good feet, courage, and tenacity of spirit. "
St John of the Cross, OCD - Doctor of the Church

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"To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is the best and most perfect wisdom. Wherefore, if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate. All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself. "
Thomas á Kempis

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