The Beatitudes

    

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

29 January 2023

 

First Reading: Zep 2:3, 3:12-13

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 146:6-7, 8-9, 9-10

Second Reading: 1 Cor 1:26-31

Gospel: Mt 5:1-12a

 

Reflection

By: Cereza Ana Balla

 

Growing up, I watched countless movies, cartoons, and animes. And I have also read a variety of novels and fictional stories, of which most have classic plot lines. There are stories about a lovely girl being saved and happily ever after with her knight in shining armor. Others tell tales of how  nice boy with humble origins or a tragic past encounters someone or something that will encourage him to become a great hero who fights for peace and unity.

Cliché as they may be, they do a great job showing the audience the merits of being good, the joys after the sorrows, and that there is always someone or something that will either be with you or help you move forward. If you think about it, it is no different to how Jesus tells us in this Sunday's gospel that in showing and spreading the goodness, we will also be blessed. That in our humbleness and in our sorrows, we will also be blessed. And through life's ups and downs, God will always be there to help, to comfort, and to give rewards.

In summary, through the beatitudes God promises that

  'for better or for worse

   for richer or for poorer

    in sickness and in health,

     He promises to love and cherish you.'

Prayer

Our Father, You are truly Almighty. Thank You for Your unending love and blessings. May You continue to be by our side, to be our mentor when we are confused and lost, to be our comforter when we are down, and to be our fairy godfather in times of need. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Cez is the second eldest daughter amongst the four Marias of two wonderful parents, Anabelle and her husband.