Beatitudes

Today's gospel is one of my favorite verses in the Bible. It is good to reflect on these beatitudes, which is also called the blue print of Christian living (as what our priest said in his homily). This contradicts today's point of view that fame and wealth make one more blessed and fortunate over the others. God's love is not confined to the rich and famous. His love is also overflowing for the less fortunate, poor, and neglected in the society. Does that mean that God doesn't love the rich and famous? Of course not, God's love is for everybody. For Him, everybody is of equal importance and status. It is just too good to know that God has the heart for the poor and weak. He is close to those who are broken hearted, discouraged, and meek. And so, we are called to do the same. As we celebrate this month of love, we should keep in mind that we must extend our love to our brothers who are in great need of our affection and love. We must also remember that Valentines day is not merely a day for couples or lovers alone, but for all... that includes the people that has caused us pains, people who are not in good terms with us, people whom we usually give less importance. By loving these people, it is good to be reminded of God's love, the world's greatest lover, for HE has a heart for us all. With Him, everyday is a valentines day. The beatitudes remind us of God's love and mercy.

The Beatitudes

Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them saying:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

for they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called sons of God.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:1-12 (New International Version)