Blessed Are You

Today the psalm response gives us the Gospel in a single line: Blessed are the poor in spirit, the kingdom of heaven is theirs! (Psalm 145) 

Jesus leaves the crowds behind and teaches the disciples eight key phrases that we know today as the Beatitudes. Today’s selected text only includes the Beatitudes themselves, though astute readers will remember that the Beatitudes begin the Sermon on the Mount in chapter 5 of Matthew’s Gospel. Today, however, our attention is draw to the simple phrases focusing on those for whom Jesus often reminds us to pray. 

It is easy to pray when life is going well and you have fewer concerns. It is harder to feel connected to the church and to Christ when you feel left behind, neglected, or even forgotten. The Beatitudes remind us to focus on those who are poor in mind, who may feel that they are not strong enough to get through the life they are living. We don’t want to be in that position, but it is comforting to know that we are still blessed in the sight of God. 

The final two Beatitudes strike me as particularly poignant in the present political climate. We pray for those facing persecution, who may be accused falsely and not deserve to be in their present situation. Jesus reminds us that our reward, even in the face of strife, will be great in heaven. 

Today's Readings