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The Beatitude

Gospel
Matthew 5:1-12a
How happy are the poor in spirit

Seeing the crowds, Jesus went up the hill. There he sat down and was joined by his disciples. Then he began to speak. This is what he taught them:

‘How happy are the poor in spirit;
    theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy the gentle:
    they shall have the earth for their heritage.
Happy those who mourn:
    they shall be comforted.
Happy those who hunger and thirst for what is right:
    they shall be satisfied.
Happy the merciful:
    they shall have mercy shown them.
Happy the pure in heart:
    they shall see God.
Happy the peacemakers:
    they shall be called sons of God.
Happy those who are persecuted in the cause of right:
    theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

‘Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.’

Reflection 
The inner happiness spoken of in the Beatitudes is God's gift of blessing granted to those who choose to be disciples. This blessing is a result of the realization of a person's spiritual poverty (5:3) and an acknowledgment of one's total dependence on God.

Let us pray
I trust You with all my heart, soul and mind. In Jesus' name, Amen. Almighty Son of God, You are the great “I AM.” You are faithful to Your promises and will defeat my enemies, though numerous and powerful. I will not be discouraged because I walk in your divine presence.

Amen

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