Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 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 satisfied. 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 sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men 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 so men persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:1-12

Beautitude

Maybe some of you, like me, have been troubled. My weakness in the face of these difficulties is before me always. In prayer recently, the beatitudes have come to mind, and they have been some comfort.

Poor in Spirit

Blessed are the poor in spirit, that is, those who have nothing before God. No courage, no strength, no constancy. As long as we look to Him to supply our needs, standing before Him in our poverty, He promises that the Kingdom of Heaven is ours. Trust His promise.

Mouners

Has anyone ever thought themselves blessed to mourn? In these times, we mourn the loss of many good things. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the loss of good company, or just the ability to relax at the store, mourning is not a blessed activity.

And yet… they shall be comforted. Turn to God. We might be able to say, “O happy mourner, who gained for herself so great a Comforter!” Pentacost is coming…

Meek

In these times that try, meekness isn’t the desired virtue. Those who do not have it scorn it. It is weak, sheep-like. Fears rise up on all sides. The government will use this as a chance to take away our rights. Our Churches will be emptier than before, now that people think live-streaming is good enough. We must stand up and battle these earthly evils!

Maybe that is some people’s calling. It is not mine. I am called to trust as a lamb, perhaps led to the slaughter. I am not sure I can do it, but I know I can’t do more.

May the Lord keep His promises of blessing!