Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Today we have Luke’s version of the great sermon that Jesus gave to the crowds. Jesus talks about the notion of being “Blessed.” “Blessed are you who are poor.” What? How can it be a blessing to be poor? Jesus is reminding us that the poor depend on God. In fact, he said to the poor, “The kingdom of God is yours.” The same can be said of those who are hungry, weeping, and hated. These and other difficult situations teach us to place our trust in God. As our first reading from Jeremiah said, “Blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose hope is the LORD.”
But Jesus then addressed the rich, those with full stomachs, laughing with no worries, and the ones who enjoy the praise of others. He said, “Woe to you.” Why? Because it is much harder for those who have everything in this life to learn that ultimate life, eternal life, depends on God and God alone. Jeremiah said of them, “Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings . . . whose heart turns away from the LORD.”
Now, let’s turn to St. Paul who made it clear in our Second Reading that Jesus did rise from the dead. If he hasn’t, then our faith is in vain, but, as it is, Jesus did rise, and so shall we.
Let us learn the lesson here. If we have any hope to find that fulfilling, complete, abundant life that Jesus promised to us in our own resurrection from the dead someday, it is not because of what we have and how good we are, but on what Jesus gives to us out of his great love for us. In fact, we are all poor in spirit — and without Jesus — we will never find satisfaction in the Kingdom of God. We depend on him. And, Jesus is dependable!
Have a blessed week everyone.