Wednesday, August 06, 2025

Congratulations You Ptochoi

I’m gonna ask again why Luke’s Beatitudes aren’t equally important.
"Congratulations, you poor! God's domain belongs to you!

“Congratulations, you hungry! You will have a feast.

“Congratulations, you who weep now! You will laugh.”

“Damn you rich! You already have your consolation!

“Damn you who are well-fed now! You will know hunger.

“Damn you who laugh now! You will learn to weep and grieve.”
Certainly a more succinct guide to how we should then live. And more straightforward than admonitions to not covet your neighbor’s ass. (Don’t blame me, blame King James.)

4 comments:

  1. I wonder how many People, including innocent People will be sentenced to death by the state with a Cecil B. DeMille "10 Commandments" up on the wall. I'd include "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" along with the beatitudes. I'd never expect "Sell all you have and give the money to the poor." to appear anywhere on any court house or court room in the country.

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    1. It really should, though, shouldn’t it?

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  2. How about the Magnificat in a school or the halls of justice?

    "He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
    he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
    52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
    but has lifted up the humble.
    53 He has filled the hungry with good things
    but has sent the rich away empty."

    That would lead to some interesting classroom discussions.

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    Replies
    1. And the people say: “AMEN!”

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