Monday, June 23
Liturgical Color: Green
St. Joseph Cafasso died on this day in
1860. He was a priest known for his
ascetic lifestyle, one of strict self-denial.
He was much sought after as a
confessor, helping many to repent
and live more holy lives.
Day 190 - What are the Beatitudes? // Why are the Beatitudes so important?
What are the Beatitudes?
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Mt 5:3-12)
Why are the Beatitudes so important?
Those who yearn for the kingdom of God look to Jesus' list of priorities: the Beatitudes.
From Abraham on, God made promises to his people. Jesus takes them up, extends their application to heaven, and makes them the program for his own
life: the Son of God becomes poor so as to share our poverty; he rejoices with those who rejoice and weeps with those who weep (Rom 12:15); he employs no violence but rather turns the other cheek (Mt 5:39); he has mercy, makes peace, and thereby shows us the sure way to heaven. (YOUCAT questions 283, 284)
Dig Deeper: CCC section (1725-1726) and other references here.