Do Christian Nationalists Live by the Beatitudes?

This letter to the editor, by John Krizek, appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on May 28, 2026.

How many who claim the banner of Christian nationalism actually live by the words of Jesus?

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 offer a counter cultural blueprint: radical teachings of humility, compassion and peace that cut sharply against today’s individualistic, polarized America. Consider what they demand of us:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit.” Embrace humility over self-reliance. Acknowledge your limits. Stop hustling to prove your worth against curated social media highlight reels.

“Blessed are those who mourn.” Resist the urge to hide grief.

Show up for friends facing job loss, broken relationships or death. Hold space for sorrow instead of demanding a quick fix.

“Blessed are the meek.” Choose gentleness over aggressive self-promotion. Refuse to climb over others. Value people more than winning arguments.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” - Advocate for a fairer society. Address systemic inequalities.

Defend the marginalized. Act with personal integrity.

“Blessed are the merciful.” Forgive rather than cancel. Seek to understand before you judge. Offer grace when people stumble.

“Blessed are the pure in heart.” Stay authentic in a superficial culture. Do the right thing when no one is watching. Let kindness, not clout, guide your motives.

“Blessed are the peacemakers.” Build bridges across a fractured landscape. De-escalate conflict at work, at family gatherings, in your community - instead of fueling the outrage machine.

“Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake.” Stand by your convictions even when it costs you. Risk social pushback for doing what is ethical, not merely what is popular.

These are not soft suggestions. They are the direct teachings of the One whose name Christian nationalists claim.

I urge every reader — regardless of political affiliation — to ask honestly: Is my political loyalty getting in the way of living the teachings of my Teacher?

Allegiance to a party must never eclipse our compassion for one another.