Chuck Bridges Blog

The popularity of the television series called “Heroes” demonstrates how intrigued people are with the epoch battle between good and evil. On the television program the so-called “Heroes” have super human abilities. There is a continual struggle between the “good” and the “bad” super-charged characters. Whether it is our super-heroes like Batman, Superman, or Spiderman (I think the newest one is Iron Man?), or the new versions of Heroes made up by Hollywood, it all says how our world is consumed with those who show up just in time to “save the day!”

After the events of 9/11/01, we gained a new appreciation and respect for the Heroism of the men and women who serve as Fire Fighters and Law Enforcement personnel. They put their lives on the line every day! And, trust me, it is not for the money! Then there are the Heroes who put on our military’s uniforms and go wherever they are sent to defend our country. Our world is also filled with other, less recognized Heroes. They are our school teachers and medical personnel; or perhaps they are the ones who deliver food to lonely, elderly people who live alone. All of these (and many more) are worthy of our respect and recognition.

This month we are talking about a completely different version of Heroes. We are studying the first section of Jesus’ great Sermon on the Mount. In the first eleven verses of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus outlines the behaviorial guidelines for those who choose to “Follow” Him. These are usually called the “Beatitudes.” They seem to define what it means to be miserable but Jesus says, if you abide by these precepts, HAPPY ARE YOU! Not too many Christians want to even think about these requirements given to us by Jesus. Yet, it is the kind of people produced by the Beatitudes that are the real HEROES of every generation. History is littered with stories of faith, sacrifice, and even Martyrdom by people who took Jesus’ words seriously.

In a world that grows increasingly more selfish and sinful every day, we need for Christ-Followers to live by “The Code” of behavior found in Matthew 5:1-11. If you are looking for recognition or riches, this will not be your life journey. But, if you really want to change the world where you live, listen intently to these timeless words of Jesus and adjust your lives accordingly. For the next few weeks we are going back to the BASICS of our Faith. I hope you will join us on Sundays or follow along through this blog and/or by listening to the messages online. (www.washingtonavenue.org) I hope you have a great Sunday!!!