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The beatitude


June 8

Gospel
Matthew 5:1-12
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: this is how they persecuted the prophets before you.’

Reflection

Jesus opens with a surprising and countercultural message: true happiness is found not in power or comfort, but in traits that often require surrender—poverty in spirit, gentleness, mourning, hungering for righteousness, mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking, and steadfastness under persecution. Each beatitude turns worldly expectations upside down, inviting us to trust that God’s kingdom is present where humility, compassion, and justice thrive. When we cultivate these qualities, we participate in God’s work in the world and find a deep, lasting joy that God promises to reward—even in the face of suffering.

Question for reflection

- In what area of my life am I being invited to deeper poverty of spirit and trust in God’s kingdom today?

Prayer

Holy God, help me to live the beatitudes with sincerity and courage. Fill me with humility that welcomes your reign, gentleness that honors others, and a hunger for what is right. Move me to show mercy, preserve a pure heart, and be a peacemaker in my relationships. strengthen me when I am tested by opposition, and remind me that my true reward is in your heavenly kingdom. Amen.

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