While listening to the reading of the Beatitudes in church this morning, I decided to see in what ways I am "blessed" according to Jesus' teaching:

• poor in spirit
• meek
• mournful
• hungering and thirsting for righteousness
• merciful
• pure of heart
• peacemaker
• persecuted

In an honest reflection, I think hungering and thirsting for righteousness is my strongest suit. I'd like to think that my actions embody the value I place on justice.

Regarding the others, I am weak. Those who know me realize that I am neither poor in spirit nor meek. I am not particularly mournful, and I am not just sure how mercy would be displayed in my life. I do not have much experience with making peace, and I am certainly not persecuted for Jesus' sake.

As our preacher pointed out this morning, I do not think a Christian must aspire for all of these. However, I can certainly see some areas for improvement by reflecting on this teaching.