Beatitudes

Today is June 25, 2009. Earlier today we learned of Farrah Fawcett's death. Most recently the news is that Michael Jackson also has passed away. With these two sad announcements I would like to take a look at life by asking you a question. How do you want to be remembered?
Life is usually described with the word "precious." It is a simple description, child-like and yet it is what we say. We also say someone is full of life. We overuse the statement: "Life is too short."
During the course of the next days we will be reminded of Farrah Fawcett's life and the brave battle she fought before her death. We'll remember Charlie's Angels. Also, we'll hear songs such as "I'll Be There" and "Beat It" as we remember Michael Jackson.
Matthew records in chapter five the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. We refer to the Beatitudes as the lifestyle prescribed by Jesus who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. The other day I was in a Bible study where a portion of the words contributed to James reflect the Beatitudes.
James ends chapter 3 with these words:
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and not hypocritical. And the fruit that consists of righteousness is planted in peace among those who make peace."
(James 3:17 and 18, The NET Bible).
I encourage my Bible study leader to write a book that reflects our study. If he would write a book we could all understand that tells of the meaning in James it would be so helpful. I have always said that if I could point anyone to one book from the Bible I would recommend the Gospel of John. It is hard for me to leave out James. I know that a basic understanding would come from John, but James gives us a real challenge as well as a true guide for life.
Look for more insights from the question: How do you want to be remembered? (See my next post).