the beatitudes are not optional
"The world as we know it is passing away." —1 Corinthians 7:31
St. Paul, in today's first Eucharistic reading, is bringing out the very message of Luke's Beatitudes in today's Gospel reading. We are not made only for this world, and there is more to life than this world. Jesus teaches that trying to live by the values of this world does not bring happiness that endures. Additionally, living by the world's standards actually brings disaster, not happiness. Woe to those who don't see this (Lk 6:24-26), for the world as we know it is passing away (1 Cor 7:31).
So let us live for God and not for ourselves (2 Cor 5:15). Jesus teaches that this is the way to true happiness on this earth (Lk 6:20-23). Living the Beatitudes is not merely a nice option for some Christians. Rather, Jesus proclaims that disaster and woe will befall us if we don't live the Beatitudes.
Jesus is the Way to happiness (Jn 14:6). Follow His directions.
Prayer: King Jesus, I sell everything to be in Your kingdom (Mt 13:44-46).
Promise: "The time is short." —1 Cor 7:29
Praise: Father Steve has devoted his priestly ministry to defending Mary's perpetual virginity and her importance in God's plan of salvation.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(For a related teaching on The Beatitudes, order, view or download our leaflet or order, listen to or download our CD 44-3 or DVD 44 on our website.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 15, 2017
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