Beatitudes in action

"Blessed are the poor, not the penniless, but those whose hearts are free. Blessed are the meek, not the soft, but those who are patient and tolerant. Blessed are the merciful, not those who forget, but those who forgive. Blessed are the pure in heart, not those who act like angels, but those whose lives are transparent. Blessed are the peacemakers, not those who shun conflict, but those who face it squarely. Blessed are those who are persecuted for justice, not because they suffer, but because they love." A paraphrase of the Beatitudes attributed to Church workers in Santiago, Chile.

     The cure for hatred, violence, fear, injustice and intolerance is found in the Beatitudes. In Santiago, Chile, on September 11, 1973, the presidential palace was bombed and their democratically elected government was overthrown. Their elected president, Salvador Allende died in the coup. A dictator named Augusto Pinochet began a reign of terror by rounding up and herding all "dissidents" into their National Stadium. There the unfortunate victims were tortured, shot and buried in mass graves. In the following years, many college students, professors, artists and musicians were arrested, tortured, assassinated or jailed.

     More than twenty years later through the United Church of Christ, a Chilean widow whose husband never came home that fateful day on September 11, 1973, reached out to help grieving victims from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on America. The Chilean woman is a living example of the Beatitudes in action, empowering others to overcome hatred, violence, and fear. Will you follow her courageous and inspiring example in Zimbabwe?

     Every person on the face of the earth urgently needs the healing and solace offered through these remarkable Beatitudes. You do not have to be Christian to experience their remarkable power. These revolutionary teachings do not promise health, wealth, popularity or prosperity. But these blessed words offer hope for every nation and citizen of the world.

     Consider writing the Beatitudes in your own words, based on your own unique life circumstances, difficulties and faith in God. Keep a copy in your wallet or tape them in a prominent place where you can read them daily. Prize your understanding of the Beatitudes more highly than gold and silver, for these blessed words of hope and love are more precious than jewels.

     Through the power of God, live out your understanding of the Beatitudes in action. If your courage falters, think of the Chilean woman and do the best you can. No one fails who does his or her best for God.

     Prayer: God, it is only through your help that I dare to live the Beatitudes in action through the power of the Holy Spirit. Bless me with the courage and inspiration of Christ, my ultimate teacher and example. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
September 10, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this meditation throughout Zimbabwe.