TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
16 FEBRUARY, 2025
Luke 6:17, 20-26
Jesus came down with the Twelve
and stood on a stretch of level ground
with a great crowd of his disciples
and a large number of the people
from all Judea and Jerusalem
and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon.
And raising his eyes toward his disciples he said:
“Blessed are you who are poor,
for the kingdom of God is yours.
Blessed are you who are now hungry,
for you will be satisfied.
Blessed are you who are now weeping,
for you will laugh.
Blessed are you when people hate you,
and when they exclude and insult you,
and denounce your name as evil
on account of the Son of Man.
Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!
Behold, your reward will be great in heaven.
For their ancestors treated the prophets in the same way.
But woe to you who are rich,
for you have received your consolation.
Woe to you who are filled now,
for you will be hungry.
Woe to you who laugh now,
for you will grieve and weep.
Woe to you when all speak well of you,
for their ancestors treated the false prophets in this way.”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
Reflection (150 words):
In Luke 6:17, 20-26, Jesus delivers a radical message of hope and warning. He blesses the poor, the hungry, and the sorrowful, assuring them of God’s coming kingdom. These blessings reveal God’s deep compassion for the marginalized, promising them divine justice and comfort. Conversely, Jesus warns the rich, the satisfied, and the praised, reminding them that earthly success can lead to spiritual complacency.
This passage challenges us to examine our values. Are we striving for wealth and recognition, or do we seek God’s kingdom first? Jesus calls us to trust in God’s provision and prioritize love, humility, and justice. The Beatitudes remind us that true fulfillment is found in God, not in material wealth. As disciples, we are invited to live with open hands, sharing our blessings with others, and trusting in God’s promise that those who suffer now will find eternal joy in Him.
Prayer (100 words):
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom of Jesus’ teachings. Help me to seek Your kingdom above all else, finding joy in spiritual richness rather than worldly success. Give me a heart that is generous, compassionate, and humble, always mindful of those who suffer. Strengthen me to endure hardships with faith, knowing that You see and reward the faithful. Protect me from complacency and self-satisfaction, and lead me to live a life that reflects Your love and justice. May I always trust in Your promises, finding true blessing in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen
