How To Be Happy

Everything Jesus said is worth paying attention to and incorporating into our everyday living.

But there are some things Jesus said that are more famous than others and the “Beatitudes” are part of that.  These are short sayings that tell us how to be blessed or happy. 

Someone has composed some prayers of forgiveness around each of these statements. They give words to thoughts many of us carry.  I thought we could pray them today.

Lord Jesus, you offered us all your blessings when you announced, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” but we have been full of pride, treating your offer as useless and thinking our own way was best.  Forgive us.

You offered us comfort when we face our brokenness when you said, “Blessed are those who mourn”  but we have not admitted or felt much sorrow for our sin.  Forgive us.

You promised we’d be filled with joy when we lived within proper boundaries in our personal lives and in the community when you said, “Blessed are the meek” but we have been stubborn, self-centered, and determined to do what we wanted whenever we wanted.  Forgive us. 

You promised us satisfaction and a true experience of well-being in loving relationship with You when you said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness”  but we have filled our lives with lies and greed that said money and possessions and getting our own way were what we really need.  Forgive us.

You promised a safe and tender heart as we received mercy and forgiveness from you and gave it to those who needed it when you said, “Blessed are the merciful”  but we have been harsh and impatient, particularly when others wronged us or those we love.  Forgive us.

You offered us loving relationship with You if we would seek you and follow your will when you said “Blessed are the pure in heart”  but we have ignored you and chosen instead to fill our hearts and minds with impure things that you say are wrong and harmful. Forgive us.

You offered us peace of mind and heart when we sought forgiveness from you and worked for peace with others when you said “Blessed are the peacemakers” ut we have pushed our own point of view -- often with anger and violence -- and been unwilling to acknowledge our own part without really seeking peace and reconciliation.  Forgive us.

You knew we would face hard times and you offered us peace of mind if we would simply choose You and Your way no matter when others say or do when you said: “God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right.” but our thoughts and behaviours have been more focused on hatred, revenge, and retaliation. Forgive us.

Jesus, Your way is healthy and holy and your words are perfectly true for every situation. You alone have the blessing we need.  We ask you to forgive our sins, give us Your blessing, and strengthen us to walk always in your ways of truth, humility, and justice.

Well what better route to a good day could we take than to follow these foundational instructions from Jesus.

Have a great day.