The evangelist Luke has a bias for the poor that shows in today’s Gospel. When Jesus teaches the Beatitudes in Matthew’s Gospel, He says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”. Luke takes out the phrase “in spirit”. Throughout his Gospel, Luke calls attention to the materially poor–the ones without enough food, clothes, or shelter. Jesus teaches that poor, hungry, sorrowing, and persecuted people have a place in God’s kingdom. Jesus wants us to have happiness that lasts. He shared the Beatitudes with His followers. These attitudes and actions are like a map that will lead us to true happiness in this life and help us get to heaven. “The Beatitudes confront us with decisive choices concerning earthly goods; they purify our hearts in order to teach us to love God above all things” (CCC, 1728).
Parents, invite your children to share about what makes them happy. Share their answers.
Partners in Faith,
- Wednesday February 16, 2022: 5:30pm –7pm K–8 classes, 8th grade Confirmation interviews
- Wednesday February 23, 2022: 5:30pm –7pm K–8 classes