Nov 1, 2005

Mt 5:1-12a
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain,
and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him.
He began to teach them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you
and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad,
for your reward will be great in heaven.”
The beatitudes are a source of great strength and comfort. God cares for us in our suffering. God is with those who are faithful. The Kingdom is open to the children of God. I find great solice in this reading. The trials and tribulations of this life are not without meaning and God will reward the followers that walk in the paths of righteousness. Many times it appears that the evil are rewarded but this is a passing illusion not to be believed. I pray for the strength and love of God today in all that I do.