Just checking in. Did you make any New Year’s resolutions? Have you given up on them yet or are you still going strong? Did any of you make a resolution to work on your relationship with God? Even if you didn’t, a relationship with God is always within our reach. He always welcomes us with open arms. This week we once again listen to the Beatitudes, one of Jesus’s most well-known teachings from the Sermon on the Mount. Let’s explore the Beatitudes as a way of reflection to acknowledge and identify areas in our life that present an opportunity for growth. I found this reflection by an unknown author and changed it a bit. Here goes: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Have I truly recognized my complete dependence on God? Have I been arrogant and self-righteous? Have I been selfish and greedy? Have I sought after status, recognition, power, material possessions and wealth? Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Have I endured difficulties with faith and patience? Do I have compassion for the poor, the hungry, and addicted; the sick, the lonely and sinful of the world? Am I truly sorry for my sins? Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Am I gentle or harsh in my behavior? Have I lost my temper? Do I hold hatred in my heart and seek to revenge? Do I seek to dominate others at home, school, work, office, church, and elsewhere? Does it always need to be my way or I am not happy? Have I been rude, insulting or bully others? Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Can I give up my control and trust in God’s ways? Have I tried to live a good and holy life? Have I been lukewarm in my faith? Do I try to learn more about God through worship and study? Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Do I show mercy to others? Have I turned away from someone who needed help? Have I tried to understand and forgive others? Do I judge others? Do I ignore the hungry, the needy, the rejected, the poor right here in our community? Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Do I seek to stay pure in love and honest in my actions? Do I lie? Are my intentions evil or selfish? Have I been prejudiced or hypocritical? Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. Am I at peace with God? Do I have peace in my heart? Have I been angry, aggressive or impatient? Do I foster peace at home, at church, at work and in the community? Do I cause division and discord because of my inability to change?

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs if the kingdom of heaven. Do I seek the truth instead of jumping on the popular bandwagon? Have I supported those who care and protect us? Would I be able to defend my faith if asked? Blessed are you when they revile you and persecute you on my account; rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven. Each of us can use this wonderful lesson as a guide to better ourselves. Take an honest look at yourself. Self-awareness is difficult, especially when we need to admit we are not perfect. It is a wonderful thing that the God who created us IS perfect and invites us into perfect relationship with him. Blessed are you!!