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We are often encouraged to keep our attitudes in check. But what does this actually mean? While researching this I found out (as I thought it might) that “the phrase "keeping our attitude in check" refers to the ability to manage and regulate one's emotional responses in various situations. This skill is crucial for maintaining emotional intelligence, which encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. By effectively managing emotions, individuals can navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and foster healthier relationships. Techniques such as mindfulness practices, cognitive restructuring, and self-awareness can help in keeping emotions in check, leading to better emotional regulation and decision-making. (scienceinsights.org)
Well, this is a helpful and relatively a formulaic way to keep our attitudes “in check”. However, the passage from this week’s gospel- Matthew 5:1-12 deals with what the bible refers to as the B-attitudes. Are they ones that are in our B pile in life? No! Neither are they secondary in importance in being a success in life. The Beatitudes describe the character of people in God’s kingdom—humble, compassionate, just, merciful, pure, peaceful, and steadfast under persecution. This may be challenging but it is a challenge worth pursuing for they actually are a powerhouse for the follower of Jesus to live a full life as kingdom people.
The beatitudes are statements Jesus made to his followers (that’s us) to help us during time of complexity and strain as we walk the Christian journey. The term comes from the Latin beati (“blessed”), reflecting the opening word of each saying.
As we look closer at the statements of Jesus we see that the beatitudes are a way of thinking and engaging to keep a kingdom perspective in earthly situations. It is one way that we can align our minds and hearts to that of Jesus.
These teachings remain central to Christian ethics, portraying the values Jesus emphasized for a flourishing life aligned with God’s will, it’s not just a “B” attitude, it fits in as an “A’attitude.
Shalom my Friends – Fr Christopher