The Anti-Beatitudes
From John Dear’s Writings
Volume 40 Issue 1,2,&3 | Posted: April 26, 2025
Blessed are the RICH;
who make as much money as they can
They’ve learned how to work the system. Their money is their security. they do not need God.
Blessed are those who Never MOURN:
who make themselves comfortable,
blind to the plight of the poor.
Because they do not grieve for others, they never need to be comforted.
Blessed are the VIOLENT:
who swear by the myth
of redemptive violence
that violence can save them
and peace is gained by war.
Their violence will destroy the planet. They shall not inherit the Earth.
Blessed are the GREEDY:
who are unconcerned
for the poverty their life-style
inflicts on others
through cheap labour
and stolen resources.
They will always want more.
They will never be satisfied.
Blessed are the RUTHLESS:
who know how to get what they want;
the strong who consider the weak undeserving of their concern.
Showing no mercy,
they feel no need for mercy.
Blessed are the SPIN Doctors:
who sacrifice truth for wealth and power,
and ignore what the culture of greed
is doing to their hearts.
They cannot see the kingdom of God;
They are blind to God’s presence.
Blessed are the WARRIORS:
always ready to fend off their enemies.
They claim God is on their side
and pray “God bless the troops!”
they forget that war brings death.
They live always in fear.
Blessed are those who put SECURITY first:
They never rock the boat
are never insulted,
because they mind their own business.
By not joining the struggle for justice
they are disconnected from the human race.
From John Dear’s Writings