Be Happy (Mt 5:2) by Dr. Rich Reich

10 Jun Be Happy (Mt 5:2) by Dr. Rich Reich

Welcome God now with this LIFE Group Devotion(FB), provided by LIFE Runners (FB). Leaders. Guest Authors.
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“He began to teach them.” ~ Mt 5:2 (full readings)
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Rich’s Reflections:  Today’s Gospel marks the first time Jesus teaches His disciples and us, and He focuses on something very important to many:  how to be happy.  Each of the Beatitudes begins with the word “blessed”, which can be interpreted to mean “happy”.  In the Beatitudes, Jesus promises happiness and blessedness.  The media today uses our desires for happiness to lure us into materialism and hedonism.  Eat this food, buy these clothes, drive this car, etc…and you will be happy.  Why is it then that the Beatitudes do not draw as much attention since they are also focused on our happiness?  The logical explanation is that most people do not believe Jesus when He says that we will be happy being meek, sorrowful, merciful, and persecuted.  Which guidance for happiness do you believe:  the message of our secular culture or the message of Jesus?  Which one brings true happiness?  God has written the answer on your heart.  If you are persecuted for defending the unborn, have faith and persevere, because Jesus has promised you happiness.  * Dr. Rich Reich is the co-founder of the LIFE Group Devotions and the National LIFE Runners Team.  He is married to Erica and lives in Satellite Beach, FL.  Full bio.
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Faith Challenge:  Believe in what Jesus teaches on how to be happy and follow the Beatitudes.
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Counter-Culture News: LifeSiteNews, LifeNews, American Family, Vatican, Project Rachel.
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Our Prayers: Prayer to end abortion. LIFE Runners Creed. Add Prayers. Pray with meals, bedtime, wake up, etc. Consider mid-week Family Rosary (17 min). Let’s pray now.
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Feast Day:  St. Getulius
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Faith Quote:  “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.” ~ Mother Teresa
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Through Christ our Lord,
Rich
James 1:22