What God is calling for is a new vision for our life, a new plan of life, a new attitude of the heart. Jesus identified the outlines of such a vision and plan of life through his teachings in the Gospels. Listen to it and see how it involves a transformation of thought and a commitment to action.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit,  for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.   Blessed are the meek,  for they will inherit the land.  Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,  for they will be satisfied.  Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.  Blessed are the clean of heart,  for they will see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers,  for they will be called children of God.  Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of  righteousness,   for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you (falsely) because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Mt 5:3-12)

In the eyes of the world, who wants to be associated with someone who is “poor in spirit” or poor  materially? That’s not inviting. Who wants to be around someone who mourns over the sins of the world? That’s depressing. Who wants to be around people who idealistically seek to bring justice and righteousness to the world? That’s too idealistic, demanding and risky.  To show mercy is a sign of weakness not strength.  To be clean of heart is not practical in today’s society. There is no fun in that.  Peace is not possible because you can’t trust the word of anyone and everyone is out to take advantage of you. (To be continued)