Week 377
Positive post Sunday, May 19, 2024…. Week 377. As a youth attending Catholic schools, I recall hearing and reciting the 8 Beatitudes over the years both in class and in church. Now, MANY years later, I took the opportunity to revisit them through a more experienced and reflective lens.
For those not familiar with The Beatitudes I’ve attached a scroll listing them. Or better yet, you can find them in your Bible, Matthew 5:3-10. Matthew 5:1-2 informs us that the Beatitudes were the foundation of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount where he taught his disciples and the crowds. They are 8 simply stated, yet profound guidelines Jesus revealed. I humbly see The Beatitudes representing how we, the People of God, strive to be blessed, morally and spiritually as disciples of Jesus.
I see the 8th Beatitude, Matthew 5:10, “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” followed by Matthew 5:11-12, “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. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you”, as the ultimate test of my faith.
My deepest prayers include asking God to strengthen my faith and enrich me with grace and valor to live a life of righteousness and service to others. Lord, fill me with love and compassion and the courage to withstand the forces of persecution, remaining steadfast and focused on my one and only goal here on earth, to serve You. I look forward to the time You call me home to your kingdom in heaven.
Which Beatitude resonates most with you, why?
How do you withstand the forces of persecution and remain steadfast in your faith?
