Assistant Principal - Mission - Staff and Student Wellbeing

Jesus preached many sermons in His time on Earth. It is however, one in particular that has given much comfort to many Christians through the ages. In Matthew's Sermon on the Mount gospel, Jesus presents us with The Beatitudes. The word beatitude comes from Latin, which, in turn, has resulted in the Anglicized word happiness. The term denotes a literary form that was commonly used in the ancient world commending or praising a person for favour received in life.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven

Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger for righteousness, for they shall be filled.

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matt 5:3-5)

This can be difficult to interpret into actions in our everyday lives particularly in the lives of our children. The following may help in putting the words of Jesus into action:

Be the last of all, the servant of all, do not judge others and share all.

Consider the people you and others have lost, the things you have not done well, and the things you long to do.

Be slow to anger and remain humble.

Practise peace and be involved in helping others make peace.

Strive to do the right thing. Forgive others and yourself.

Look at things from the eyes of others.

Do not judge. Accept the differences of others as Jesus did.

Do not stop doing the right thing because of others.

Our Christian values align nicely with the Beatitudes and again gives us guidance to live like Jesus. Christian values include reverence, compassion, hope, peace, justice, charity, gratitude and love. 

As parents we always hope to instill big picture values in our kids as they grow and explore the world around them. While teaching values like honesty or respect may feel like daunting tasks with a young person, these lessons can gradually be taught through small but intentional moments.

The way children learn values, simply put, is by observing what you do, and drawing conclusions about what you think is important in life. Regardless of what you consciously teach them, your children will emerge from childhood with clear views on what their parents really value, and with a well developed value system of their own.

Until next time

Stay safe and God Bless