The Beatitudes according to Matthew

Today in the gospel we hear Matthew's version of the Beatitudes, (5:1-12). They teach us that in our world today, the Beatitudes are not an idealistic dream but a necessity for life. Matthew's first Beatitude is startling and is often misunderstood. '' Blessed are the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of heaven,'' does not mean those who are spiritually limited but rather those so dedicated to following Jesus that riches and material possessions are no longer seen as central to their lives. Rather they want to live trusting in the love of God and sharing, not accumulating, his gifts. Strangely today there are many people who are living according to the Beatitudes even though they are not knowingly or willingly doing so. They are those who because of the high cost of living can only afford to buy the bare necessities for daily life. Another group of Beatitude people are those who love Planet Earth, and wish to save and protect it by walking gently upon it, seeking a more sustainable way of life. ''Blessed are the gentle.'' Tragically we know that the wars that are causing so much death and destruction are leaving millions without sufficient food, water, shelter or hospital attention. Their only hope is through the efforts of those working for peace. 'Blessed are the peacemakers. ''Jesus, Prince of Peace, crown their efforts with success so that your suffering children may receive all that is necessary for a life free from the constant fear of danger and death.''