From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase inspired by the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

“Behold, your reward will be great in heaven” and “Woe to you…” (Luke 6:20-26)

REWARD and WOE: This is a challenging gospel. If one were to read it on a very surface level, it sounds like Jesus told His disciples, “If you are poor, hungry, weeping, and hated – you will go to heaven.” (Behold, your reward will be great in heaven.)  

On the other hand, “If you are rich, well-fed, laughing, and admired – you will NOT go to heaven.” (Woe to you…)

Jesus’ words seem extreme. Can we not have wealth or happiness or be admired by others and still get to heaven?

Jesus is directing us to live a sacrificial life. Are we “poor” or “hungry” because of our generosity to others that have less? Is our “weeping” caused by our compassion for the suffering of others? Are we “hated” because we hold true to our faith and values? That is what it means to live a sacrificial life. A sacrificial life is not one without food or joy or love. Rather, it is a life focused outside of ourselves. Our wealth, nourishment, and joy come from loving God and others.

Conversely, are we wealthy at the expense of others? Do we fill our bellies without regard for the suffering of others? What is the source of our laughter – does it come from a place of superiority? Are we laughing at others? Do others admire us because of our station in life or because of who we are as people?

The gospel passage describes the difference between a sacrificial life and a self-centered life. The gates of heaven are open to all who strive to live a sacrificial life – those who pick up their cross and follow Him.