In their paradoxical promises, the Beatitudes reveal a central truth about the human condition: sorrow and joy are inextricably linked. Sadly, many lives seem heavily weighted with the first. In the Beatitudes Jesus speaks blessings to those who suffer, yet without promising to alleviate their suffering in this life. Sounds like a tough sell, doesn’t it? So why have these promises resonated since the day that Jesus spoke them? I think it’s because we recognize that, with or without Jesus, we will know sorrow; and yet there was something about his presence that told the crowd that he knew their pain too. What compelled them to place their hope in some-one who shares in their suffering? What compels your hop in Jesus?
- Reflection by Elizabeth Hansen in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2024-25” published by Liturgy Training Publications.