Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5: 3-10As I listened to this Gospel during Mass on Sunday, and the sermon that followed, I couldn't help but be haunted by images of the suffering in Haiti. It is all I could think about. I suddenly knew that God is with these people, and He will be with them for a long time as they suffer, mourn, fight and rebuild.
It sounds silly now, but I didn't have time to do my thankful Tuesday post yesterday, even though I knew in my mind what I would write. So, here it is, a day late, but no less meaningful.
I'm thankful for my house, in which I sit comfortably -- because people in Haiti watched their houses crumble, sometimes on top of them.
I am thankful for my warm, comfortable bed -- because there are children in Haiti sleeping in the dirt.
I am thankful for the food in my cupboards and refrigerator -- because most in Haiti are starving.
I'm thankful for the filtered, cold water I take for granted every day -- because millions around the world die from drinking their water.
I'm thankful for a dresser full of warm clothes -- because so many around the world wear the same dirty, tattered, insufficient clothes every day.
I'm thankful for heat -- because I'm sure there is a family not far from here who does not have that luxury tonight.
I am thankful for my faith -- because it gives me hope and compassion.
I am thankful for the love in my life -- because it encourages me and reminds me of the greatest love of all.
These are all things I enjoy every day and do not stop to question. These are all things that I am blessed to have, things that so many do without.
Today marks the start of Lent for Christians around the world. During this season, I am not so much giving up something as I am being grateful for what I have, working to strengthen my faith, trying to become better at love, and repenting for where I have fallen short and hurt those around me.
Forty days from now, I pray that I will be happy, loving, grateful, forgiven and patient. I pray to notice a positive difference in myself -- in my heart.
3 comments:
Sermon on the Mount! I love this! I even did a speech about this in school one time because it made such a huge difference in my life.
I hope your Lent goal works out well!
this has been my goal this year....to stop obsessing over what I don't have, and focus on what I do...
Loved this post girlee.
such a BEAUTIFUL post. that last bit... really really spoke to me. I pray the same thing.
you have the biggest heart. never lose this quality! xoxo
Post a Comment