When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.” Matthew 5:1-12a
Reflect and ponder today about the gloriousness and high calling of the Beatitudes and their rewards. As we read through them do not be discouraged as we are aware of how far away we are from perfecting them. Know that these precepts are attainable through grace. Set your eyes on the heights of perfection by opening yourself to the grace offered. Doing so will result in glorious spiritual rewards here and eternal rewards in heaven.