Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
For, only those who can let go of possessions are capable of sharing the whole world.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
For, only those who feel the sadness of others can ever know the joy of the common life.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
For, only those who renounce artificial importance can experience the riches of nature.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
For, only those who work for universal human rights know satisfaction unsullied by guilt.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
For, only those who show mercy to others can recognize mercy when shown to them.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
For, only those who can be ordinary human beings can ever know the sacred.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
For, only those who work for peace can know what it means to express universal love.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
For, only those who are willing to suffer for justice and love can stand in the company of prophets.
(Translation of Beatitudes, NIV; Paraphrase, Jim Rigby)