The Pilgrim Way: The Beatitudes

Pilgrim, what is the Christian vision for the world?
The Christian vision for the world is one where God reigns in justice, peace and love.

How does Jesus Christ describe the citizens of God’s kingdom?
Jesus said this to the crowds who followed him. They are known as the Beatitudes:

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are those who suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

What do we learn from these Beatitudes about the life of the kingdom?
We learn that we are blessed when we know our need of God,
when we weep with compassion for the needs of the world,
when we share God’s longing for justice and peace,
and when we clothe ourselves with mercy and grace.


What is the cost of the life of the kingdom?
Jesus Christ says that if any want to be his disciples,
let them deny themselves, take up their cross daily and follow him.


What does it mean to carry the cross?
In baptism, Christians receive the sign of the cross.
We encourage one another
to fight valiantly against sin, the world and the devil,
and to remain faithful to Christ to the end of our life.


What is the hope in which a Christian lives?
A Christian lives in the sure and certain hope that as Jesus Christ rose from the dead,
so he will come again in glory to judge the world.
Christians believe that God will renew the heavens and the earth,
and that beyond death we will enjoy eternal life with God.


Pilgrim, how will this shape the journey of your life?
I will seek to discover God’s call on my life,
use my gifts in God’s service
and share the way of Jesus Christ with others.
By God’s grace, I will live tomorrow’s life today.

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Scripture

Another term for the Christian Bible