The liturgy readings for today (Corinthians 1:1-7 and Matthew 5:1-12) tell us about opportunities to encourage those who suffer afflictions and what attitudes to have and actions to take to be rewarded with blessing. There is such richness in these readings, we could really meditate with them for a long time.
A while ago, I was inspired to write some we-attitudes for friends and families. Today I am sharing them with you.
Blessed are we who are comforters, for we shall ease each other’s pain.
Blessed are we who forgive each other, for we all shall know peace.
Blessed are we who are sympathetic listeners, for we shall better understand ourselves and each other.
Blessed are we who remind others of happy memories, for we all shall grow in joy.
Blessed are we who pay attention to good details, for we shall have fuller relationships.
Blessed are we who are gentle sharers, for we shall be surprised by many kinds of wealth.
Blessed are we who don’t sweat the small stuff, for we shall know freedom from grudges.
Blessed are we who readily adapt to changes, for we shall realize our own versatility.
Friends or family might choose to pray together this little prayer of gratitude.
Act of Acclamation
O my God, I am extremely grateful for having been blessed by you.
And I appreciate all my gifts because they come from you, my God,
Who art all loving and deserving of all my love.
I promise to strive, with the help of your example,
to be more generous to those in any kind of need,
and to take nothing you give me for granted. Amen.
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Photo: The Church of The Beatitudes on the southern coast of the Sea of Galilee in Israel, the traditional site of the Sermon on the Mount. Public domain.
Sharon Krause is a RENEW volunteer whose writing has appeared in several resources for small-group faith sharing. She is a wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Royal Palm Beach, Florida. Over the years, she has served in many parish ministries.