Monday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

 

The Beatitudes are the subject of today’s Gospel. “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” “Blessed are the Meek,” “Blessed are the Peacemakers,” “Blessed are the pure of heart,” etc. These teachings give clear insight into Jesus’ heart. They show what He valued (and still values).

Jesus did not respect wealth or the prestige of high office. He identified with the poor. He often spoke in strong language and would use metaphors relating to soldiers, yet He praised peacemakers. He had walked among the poorest of the poor and those who suffered greatly. He still encouraged His followers to have a pure heart. Jesus’ Beatitudes show Him as He is, both as sovereign king and loving shepherd. He commanded His followers to high and holy standards. He also was (and is) present to those who suffer, for He said “Blessed are you who are persecuted.” He left a way for His followers to come closer to Him through the Beatitudes. These things were done “for your sake,” as St. Paul declared.

Let us never tire of reaching for the Beatitudes. These commandments are many, this is true. They are given from Jesus’ own heart, and Jesus would never give us something that wouldn’t lead us to Heaven. These are here to help us “climb the mountain” that leads to Him.

Reflection: Mountain climbers will always carry certain tools with them to help them scale a cliff or mountainside. Think of these Beatitudes as “tools” in your bag as you “climb” towards Heaven, which is the Beatific Vision. To behold God in His love is to be “beatific;” blessed, happy.

Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB

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