36. The Beatitudes

Seeing the crowd which had gathered, Jesus went up onto a mountain and sat down. His followers came to him, and he taught them, saying,

Blessed are the poor in spirit,
    for theirs is the Kingdom of God.
Blessed are those who mourn,
    for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
    for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
    for they shall be filled.
Blessed are the merciful,
    for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart,
    for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
    for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
    for theirs is the Kingdom of God.

Reflection

Jesus taught about the Kingdom of God, or what some have called the world as we know it turned upside down. Those who are thought of as unfortunate in this world, for instance, are described by Jesus as the ones who are blessed in God’s kingdom. In what ways do you feel fortunate or unfortunate? Is your evaluation of your life based on the world’s values or those of God’s kingdom?

Prayer: Give me a clear perspective, Lord, on which things in life really matter.