READ SCRIPTURE (Matthew 5:1-12)

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

REFLECT ON THE READING

Early in his ministry, Jesus taught the crowd about God’s way of blessing. This collection of blessings, the beatitudes, is found in Matthew 5:1-12 and Luke 6:20-26. Blessings come to the least. Blessed are those who are in poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger, the merciful, the peacemakers and those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake. How can this be? Most would not choose such a path, yet those who find themselves embracing those characteristics can experience a deep, resounding and unmatched blessing from God. Their spirit can be buoyed and lifted by the grace of God in such a way that often defies description. The blessing is not reserved for the future.

What do you hear in these blessings?
What is surprising about the beatitudes?

PRAY

Mighty One, send your fire on my spirit and purify my heart. Amen.

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