January 30, 2011: 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time

When something happens that is challenging or unfair we are blessed because God is with us, no matter what!

“Blessed are the poor in spirit…those who mourn…the meek…those who hunger and thirst for justice…the merciful…the pure in heart…the peacemakers…the persecuted…” (Matthew 5:1-12)

I’m sure you recognize the Beatitudes in this passage from St. Matthew’s gospel.
When Jesus gave this Sermon on the Mount, he said that people who face challenges in life are blessed.
“Blessed are you when you…” This does not make sense to us. However, God sees things differently. When something happens that is challenging or unfair we are blessed because God is with us, no matter what!

Action:

Read Matthew 5:1-12.
Thank God for being with you always and especially when life is difficult.
If things aren’t going well at school, do the best you can and trust that God will take care of everything else. If you are having problems with a friend or a classmate, in quiet prayer ask God what you should do.
Listen in your heart for God’s response.