If we are seeking a plan for our life, the Beatitudes provide us with one blessed by God. The catch to following it calls us to accept the virtue of humility which allows God to work through us for others.
In all my years of life, I can name only a few people who I have met who I consider truly humble. They were quiet, positive, focused on others and trusted in God’s ways. They did not criticize or judge, but accepted people for who they were in hopes they would realize humility as a character strength; an essential component of moral character.
Our theme in both readings and Gospel is humility. In the first reading from the Book of Zephaniah, the prophet calls for a conversion of heart that replaces pride with humility, as the people place their complete dependence upon God.
Saint Paul’s first Letter to the Corinthians reminds them and us that God chooses one because of faith in Christ, not because they are considered wise and strong. So immersed in faith, St. Paul reminds that “whoever boasts, should boast in the Lord.”
St. Matthew’s version of the Beatitudes focuses on the spirituality of the Kingdom of Heaven. Each one lists those who are suffering in some way on earth, but are blessed by God in a way that brings them comfort here and when they receive their heavenly reward.
We may not see ourselves in this list or not in all nine which may give us reason to believe we cannot qualify for God’s plan. We need to remember that any plan is an opportunity to better the plight of all who accept it. It is rare that anyone will qualify in everything God calls us to try. Only the human and divine Jesus is perfect. By following in His ways though, we have better than an even chance that we will succeed in most areas. That alone should give us reason to strive to be a humble disciple.
Let us take this week to pray and think about the Beatitudes listed in St. Matthew’s Gospel in respect to which ones we practice and on those we need to adopt. If we do, Jesus tells us to: “Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.” That seems like a great incentive to try a plan that offers so much to so many on earth and in heaven.
Reading 1: Zephaniah 3: 12-13
Reading 2: First Corinthians 1: 26-31
Gospel: Matthew 5: 1-12a
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