Matthew 5: 10

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

LECTIO & MEDITATIO
From peacemaking to persecution – from the work of reconciliation to hostility is quite an irony. But when we look at it again, however hard we try to make peace with some people, they refuse to live at peace with us.
Not all attempts of reconciliation succeed.
Indeed, some take the initiative to oppose us or slander us.
This is not because of our idiosyncracies but for righteousness sake.
They find distasteful the righteousness which we hunger and thirst.

Jesus expects his disciples to rejoice and be glad (vs 12) under persecution.
We are not to retaliate but to jump for joy because our reward is great in heaven.
We may lose everything on earth but we shall inherit everything in heaven.
Persecution is a token of genuineness, a certificate of Christian authenticity.
Suffering is the badge of true discipleship.
Following Christ means suffering because we have to suffer.

CONTEMPLATIO / PRAYER
Lord Jesus, remind me that when I am persecuted for your sake to have an attitude of joy and a vision of heaven, knowing that it is proof of the genuine faith that I have in you.
Amen.