Spirituality of the Beatitudes: Matthew's Vision for the Church in an Unjust World

Originally published in 1981 and now in a newly revised edition, Spirituality Of The Beatitutdes: Matthew's Vision For The Church In An Unjust World by Capuchin-Franciscan priest Michael H. Crosby explores the message of Jesus Christ in terms directly relevant to the late 20th century and beyond. Especially revealing the meaning and essence of Matthew's Gospel, Spirituality Of The Beatitudes reveals in depth the philosophies and some contradicting opinions concerning the classic and well-known refrains, "Blessed are the poor in spirit" (notes point out that Matthew was exceptional in his conviction that doing good works led those of wavering or little faith to salvation); "Blessed are the nonviolent; they will inherit the Earth"; "Blessed are the peacemakers; they will be called the children of God" and more. The discussions, although sometimes evaluating complex ideals and varied scriptural and historical resources, are fully accessible to lay readers. A welcome contribution to spirituality and Christian studies shelves.

This revision of a classic offers more than "spirituality lite," and traditional "bible study." Though he is clearly a scholar-there ARE footnotes-Fr. Crosby's organization and presentation make this work truly accessible to the average reader who is willing to think and discover. Every section is a gateway to new understanding. The detailed comparison between Luke's and Matthew's treatment of the beatitudes will be enlightening for those with little formal training in scripture. The chapter on "blessed are the poor in spirit" (Luke simply says "blessed are the poor") puts to rest the confusion that often surrounds this pronouncement. In particular Crosby debunks the common attitudes that poverty is a virtue, and points out that the two evangelists paint very different portraits of Jesus' economic status. With all that, the author also includes examples for beatitudinal living. For example, when discussing the merits and purpose of fasting, he points out that many Americans have heard and accept some negative images of Wal-Mart, yet instead of "fasting" from Wal-Mart, "blind to the justice issues involved, we go there because `it's cheaper.'" At the same time, Crosby is not judging or condemning behaviors such as this, nor does he exclude himself from them. Instead, his goal is "to make the words (of the beatitudes) come alive in the individual, interpersonal, and infrastructural levels of life for the integrity of the world and all creation" A huge undertaking, of course, but one worthy of us all. Spirituality of the Beatitudes is a good place to start and would be especially fruitful for a small Christian community.