Justice Bulletin Board

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."  (Matthew's Gospel 5:1-2)

Jesus is turning our world upside down.  His words are in total contradiction to the message of our culture that we never have enough - that we cannot rest until our self worth is defined by career, homeownership, bank account and possessions.  Jesus says it is the poor who are "blessed".  Perhaps this is because the world, which treats many so well, has failed them, and they know that it is not something to put faith in.  The poor have the advantage of seeing clearly that the "idols" our culture offers to us are unworthy of our worship and sacrifice.  The poor have much to teach us.

As we look toward the beginning of Lent, we offer the following examination of Conscience.  This examination will make sense only if we really believe that what Jesus says in the Beatitudes is practical and relevant and is meant for us to make real in our lives and in our world. It is adapted from The Fire of Peace a publication by PaxChristiUSA

Examination of Conscience

Blessed are the poor in spirit… Do I fear being poor, in spirit or otherwise?  Do I prefer to be rich in money, brains or influence?

Blessed are those who mourn…Do I grieve over the pain in the lives of others?  Do I mourn over war, poverty, hunger, injustice?

Blessed are the meek… Do I understand nonviolence as a way to fight evil with good?  Do I live that way? 

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice… Have I kept myself ignorant of current events that are clearly injustices?  Am I trying to improve life for others?  Have I kept silent when I should have spoken out against injustice?

Blessed are the merciful…Are there places in my life where others are suffering because of my lack of mercy?  What is my attitude toward capital punishment, ex-convicts, the poor?

Blessed are the pure of heart… Am I open and honest about who I am?  Do I take time for prayer, solitude, community?

Blessed are the peacemakers…Is my presence a source of peace?  Do I support violence in films, sports?  Have I read and supported official church statements against war, nuclear weapons and the arms race?

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake… Do I worship security and fear costly discipleship?  Who are my heroes?  Do I live a truly Christian life in witness to the teachings of Jesus?