For a number of years, people and advertisements and self-help literature have talked about “being your best self” or the “best version of yourself” or other similar expressions. It is aspirational language, and there is something attractive about it. But it also is ambivalent terminology. For what really is a “best self?” Is a best villain a best self? A best autocrat? Or even a person who has developed his/her special ability to the highest degree?
In our Gospel this week (Matt 5:1-12a), we hear Matthew’s beatitudes (Luke’s version is found in Lk 6:17ff). The beatitudes are Jesus’ version of what a “best” human person looks like — a spiritual character sketch, a list of attitudes and virtues for a best human self who is an image of God. The first beatitude Matthew mentions is “blessed are the poor in spirit.” The “best selves” I have been fortunate to know recognize that their human life itself, and all their talents and accomplishments, are gifts from their God. They are “poor in spirit” instead of being boastful; they are humble people, thankful to God. Then Matthew lists the other attributes of his spiritual “best self” people: the merciful, the peacemakers, the justice-seekers who are persecuted. Matthew’s Gospel presents Jesus as a second Moses, but a Moses who gives us the beatitudes instead of more commandments. Much more could be said about these beatitudes, but here’s the thing: The best self behind the beatitudes is a self that is focused not only on itself! It’s focused on others, on the larger society, and of course on God. What is your idea of being your best self? Does Jesus’ list add anything?
— Blog entry by Sister Mary Garascia
The post February 1, Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Best Self: a Sunday Scriptures blog first appeared on Sisters of the Precious Blood.