Blessed are the Poor

On Wednesday during prayer the reading was from the Beatitudes.  Neil had been inspired by a book shared by his son:  Sermon on the Mount by Emmett Fox.  We focused our attention on considering the words:  “Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

From Neil:

To follow up on our discussion: If we are going to try and banish the everyday dross on the brain and let in the Good News!  … Are there any prayers or Christian -like mantra that might be helpful?  Below are some examples. You may find better mental incentives, but we'll call these starters.

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from Lao Tzu

Fill your bowl to the brim
 and it will spill.

Keep sharpening your knife
 and it will blunt.

Chase after money & security and your heart will never unclench.

Care about people’s approval 
and you will be their prisoner.

Do your work, then step back
, the only path to serenity.

                                                *******************

Be content in what you
 have
, rejoice in the way things
 are. 
When you realize there is nothing 
lacking, 
The whole world belongs to 
you.  Lao Tzu

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Listen readily to holy reading and devote yourself 
to prayer. 
Every day with tears and sighs confess your past sins
 to God in prayer 
and change from these evil ways
 in the future.  St. Benedict, Chap. 4

 Peace…Neil