Galilee was a challenging place for Jesus to begin His ministry. There were Pharisees, Sadducees and numerous sects, with many people claiming to be "the one." In less than three years, Jesus managed to get the followers that other sects and religious groups took 1000 years to achieve.
Jesus did not suggest that people live by an endless list of complicated rules - what He had in mind was more of a lifestyle change. The beatitudes are doable things that can be incorporated into everyday life. Don't get me wrong - many of the things Jesus asks of us are challenging, but with His help and guidance, attainable.
We celebrated Mass at an outdoor chapel at the Mount of the Beatitudes. Hundreds of people were gathered at this sacred site and often our voices competed with those of other groups around us.
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after 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 the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake” (Matt 5:3-11)
Which beatitude do you find most challenging?
Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake” (Matt 5:3-11) because sometimes people tease us if we stand up for Jesus.
ReplyDelete