Most of us don’t want to be poor, or mourn, or be persecuted. We might find it deeply challenging to be merciful, clean of heart, or to be peacemakers. And yet, in today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us that these are the ingredients for a blessed life! In a world that tells us we should seek comfort, distraction, ease, and abundance, Jesus tells us that none of these things will bring us to the goodness we are made for. Only God can satisfy. And, God’s goodness is so satisfying, it can even lead us to rejoice in the face of trials and difficulties.

• Reflection by Elizabeth Hansen in “Celebrating Sunday for Catholic Families 2024-25” published by Liturgy Training Publications.