Matthew 5:1-12A
Lead in #1: With the Beatitudes that Jesus teaches his disciples, we hear the secret of happiness. And so, Jesus tells us, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of God.” What does that mean to be poor of spirit? The Message translation suggests that when you’re at the end of your rope, remember when there is less of you, there can be more of God.
Prompt #1: Reflect on a time when you felt like being at the end of your rope helped make less of you and more of God.
Lead in #:2: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” The Message translation suggests that when you feel you’ve lost what is most dear to you, that only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
Prompt #2: Think of a loss you’ve suffered through. What helped you let go of what was so dear to you? What loss, dear to you, are you still working on?
Lead in #3: “Blessed are the meek (and humble), for they shall inherit the earth.” The Message translation suggests that when you’re connected with who you are, no less, no more, that’s the moment you find yourself proud owners of everything that can’t be bought.
Prompt #3: Was there ever a time when you felt content with who you are, no less, no more? If you’re not there now, what can help you get there?
Lead in #4: I’ve heard it said, “If you want to be a saint, live in the spirit of the Beatitudes.” But what does it mean to live in the spirit of Beatitudes? Developing the habit of living with gratitude, humility, courage and compassion, these are the things that help us get there. And is that not a saint, the one whose life gives witness to gratitude, humility, courage, and compassion?
Prompt # 4: Who in your life models these attributes and inspires you to want to live them in your life?
Prompt #5: Which of these attributes is easier for you to live, and why?
Prompt #6: Which of these attributes is harder for you to live, and why?
Lead in #5: November 1 is All Saints Day. We sometimes mistakenly think we can’t be a saint because we sin and saints don’t. A saint is someone who allows God to use their sin to make them into a saint.
Prompt #7: Where is it in your life where you can see how God used your worst moment to make it into your best moment? That is, when did God use your sin to draw you closer to Him and the person God calls you to be?