The Passion of Christ

 

Passion of Christ Part II

‘Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.’

   In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus delivered the Word of God, known as the Beatitudes, which is both beautiful and powerful. These verses are closely related to Jesus' life in general, or to a humble guideline that Jesus entrusted to all of us to follow. He taught the Beatitudes, and Mt 5: 3-11, the eight verses from 3 to 11, are at the heart of the Sermon on the Mount. The passages from Mt 5:10-12 are particularly relevant during this Lenten season. When we begin to live spiritually and in a holy manner, the evil will persuade us to do numerous things that are not pleasing to God. In other words, even if we do the right thing, we will face persecution. Those who are persecuting us will find it difficult because of our integrity. But, as Jesus says, we must remain attentive, calm, and patient in the face of false accusations. Rejoice in all instances of persecution, because Jesus promises us the prize in heaven if we accept all of the suffering in Jesus' name. Matthew 5:10–12 (NJB):  Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs. 11 ‘Blessed are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven; this is how they persecuted the prophets before you.