THURSDAY, September 17 (Hildegard of Bingen)

In the gospel reading for today we hear the Beatitudes. Last Saturday we reflected on what it means to be pleasing to God. This lesson follows that one naturally. Part of the fruits of doing what pleases God is being blessed by God.

Every day we bless each other. Whether it be after a sneeze or more thoughtfully by way of a compliment paid, we bless each other when we recognize and honor those with whom we come in contact. But when God blesses, that is something special.

The Beatitudes remind us that God's blessings are not rewards for doing well. Rather, even if we mess up, even if we are less than successful in the eyes of the world, even if we are never rich or powerful, if we but remain pure in heart and keep God's principles of love, forgiveness, and mercy, God will be pleased and we will be blessed.

And so let us greet each day with renewed resolve to re-present the love of Jesus to all whom we meet, and rest secure that in this endeavor, we will be truly blessed.

PRAY for the Diocese of Southern Ohio (Province V, USA)