The photo above is the Church of the Beatitudes. The photo was taken when I visited the Church of the Beatitudes in 2019 with a group of pilgrims. This is the location where tradition says that Jesus may have preached about the beatitudes, we read in today’s gospel.
Our help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth, says the Psalmist (Ps 121). The Gospel passage is about the beatitudes. Here, Jesus speaks of those who are in various situations in life: the poor in spirit, the mournful, the meek, the merciful, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the clean of heart, the peacemakers, the persecuted.
These blessed ones either find themselves in such a situation due to external conditions or personal choices.
No matter the cause, Jesus reassures them of God’s presence and generosity. Jesus says God will meet their needs and take care of them.
A typical example was Elijah in today’s first reading (1 Kings 17:1-6), where God provided shelter and food to the prophet Elijah, because he was faithful under persecution for preaching the word of God.
Even today, true prophets risk their lives, security, job security, danger of losing friends or families. In any case, God is always on the side of his prophet. Our help comes from Him.
No matter who your day is like, be assured that God’s help is around the corner. Be glad and be courageous.
Have a blessed week
