The saints had a deep awareness of God’s will for their lives, and their perspective and purpose changed drastically as they sought to fulfill that calling. Some were martyred for their faith, while others endured lifelong suffering. Each saint had their own Way of the Cross. Today’s Gospel reading, from the Sermon on the Mount, offers guidance for living a life of blessedness. Usually, the mourning, the meek, and the persecuted are not considered favorable in the eyes of the world. Yet, from the Lord’s perspective, these are the paths that lead to the Kingdom. The Lord reminds us to rejoice and be glad, for our reward will be great in heaven. Do we sometimes wonder and question God about why he allows certain things to happen in our lives? Do we ask, “Why me, Lord?” At times, we may face trials so that we may be purified, molded, and shaped according to the his will. Therefore, let us remain yielded and still in times of adversity, trusting that he is at work in us.

PRAYER: Abba Father, reveal your plan for my life, that I may serve you. Amen.