We read the Beatitudes like a spiritual to-do list. Be meek. Check. Be merciful. Check. Be a peacemaker. Check.
But that misses the point entirely.
The Beatitudes aren't a checklist - they're a mirror. They show us who Jesus is. He's the poor in spirit, the one who mourns, the meek one, the merciful one, the peacemaker, the persecuted one.
When we read the Beatitudes, we're not looking at a self-help list. We're looking at Jesus. And the more we follow him, the more we start to look like him - not because we're trying harder, but because we're staying closer.
This week: Read the Beatitudes again - slowly. See Jesus in every line. Then ask: Where is he inviting me to follow him more closely?
If there's anything I can hold in prayer for you, let me know in the comments. And most importantly - I'll see you at Mass this weekend.
