Blessedness of God


Everyday Stewardship: Living the Beatitudes | LPiDuring my retreat several weeks ago, one session was on the eight Beatitudes. Although I have heard this Gospel  often, I had not taken time to really meditate on its implications. So in this time of silence and isolation, I prayed about our blessedness.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  We are blessed when we have tried to place ourselves among the poor, to reach out to them in their need, to be a voice for those who have no voice.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.  We are blessed when we grieve with those who mourn, especially those who have not been able to be with loved ones who died of COVID 19; who grieve not only death, but those who suffer from injustices, like racism and poverty and the devastation of the earth.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. We are blessed when we humbly acknowledge our rightful place on the earth,and our interconnectedness with all creation.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. We are blessed when we strive for right relationship with ourselves, with others, and with all created things.
Blessed are the merciful for they will receive mercy. We are blessed when we let ourselves be   “mercy’d” by God, who showers with mercy all who have fallen short and draws them back into his love.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.  We are blessed when we allow ourselves to be emptied of any kind of bitterness or self-centeredness.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. We are blessed when we build bridges of peace, eradicating all rancor and distancing from others.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We are blessed when we are willing to take rejection and assume hardships as we try to live the Gospel.
These are hard truths to live but they are worth the effort. God is never outdone in blessings.




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