1 Corinthians 7:25-31, Psalm 45; Luke 6:20-26
Luke 6:20-26 presents us with Luke’s version of the Beatitudes. Sometimes called the “sermon on the plain” because, according to Luke, Jesus came down from the mountain and stood on a plain surface to deliver his sermon. In Matthew’s Gospel, this same sermon was delivered on the mountain (Mt 5:1) regarded as “Sermon on the Mount.” In Luke, the sermon is shorter and more radical. It contains four blessings and four curses contrasted. They are; poverty and riches; hunger and fullness; sorrow and laughter; and lastly, defamation and commendation. Generally, the beatitudes are Christ’s commentaries on our attitudes.
Similarly, Paul in the first reading commented on our attitude towards chaste living. He urges us to be faithful in our various commitments; married or celibate. Paul says; “because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is.Are you pledged to a woman? Do not seek to be released. Are you free from such a commitment? Do not look for a wife. But if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But those who marry will face many troubles in this life…”
There is no vocation or way of life that is easy and so Paul encourages us to remain steadfast in spite of the many troubles. Christians periodically experience what the outside world might call “unfortunate” circumstances. However, in the Gospel reading, the Lord calls any child of God who could be going through such struggles “blessed.” Therefore do not be discouraged, many are the afflictions of the righteous but from them all they are delivered. Always put on a positive attitude, you are a blessed child of God. “Your attitude will determine your altitude”.
LET US PRAY
Lord, free us from the shackles of bad attitude. Work in our hearts and minds to transform us . Fill us with joy that emantes from your Spirit and a passionate desire for deeper values in life through Christ our Lord. Amen.
