In the plan of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus proclaims the kingdom of the new covenant and its requirements while seated on a mountain. This parallels the establishment of the Jewish covenant on the mountain — Mount Sinai (see Ex 24:12-18). Matthew 5-7 comprises the famous "sermon on the mount," which is a collection of various sayings and teachings of Jesus that lay the foundation for the kingdom of God.

Many interpretations of the beatitudes are possible, but it is best to see them as reflecting basic Christian attitudes which manifest themselves in one’s way of life, rather than as specific commands or counsels. The word "blest" simply means "happy" or "fortunate." It is an affirmation that one is on the right track and truly a part of the kingdom. (See also the Gospel for the Solemnity of All Saints, November 1.)

This prophet, writing after Isaiah but before the Babylonian captivity, foresaw the coming of destruction but also realized that spiritual strength would enable some to survive. The self-sufficient proud would not be able to withstand, but the humble, the spiritually "poor" who rely on God, would be the saved remnant who in turn would be instruments of salvation for others. (See also the Third Sunday of Advent, Year C, for a more detailed introduction to this book.)

This psalm describes in a concrete way the faithfulness and protection of God for those who trust in him. Response: "Happy the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs."

Paul, continuing the advice begun in last week’s reading, shows that human wisdom of itself is incapable of really knowing God’s person and plan. (Note that the preceding section, vv 22-25, emphasizing the wrongheadedness of human standards of wisdom, is read on the Third Sunday of Lent, Year B.) God has revealed himself in the foolishness of poverty and the cross. It is there that true human dignity and worth are recognized.

These words condemn the "wisdom" of the proud, which causes divisions among the people of God who are called to unity in Christ. This is the worldly wisdom that seeks reasons to say, "I am better than you" or "I can do it myself, I don’t need any God." In no way can these words be interpreted to condemn genuine wisdom that seeks truth and understanding, whether through science or theology. There is no criticism here of putting God’s gift of intellect to the service of God’s gift of faith.

1. Discuss the qualities that you find in people you admire that reflect the beatitudes.

2. Reflect upon what Paul means by "boasting in the Lord" in the light of the whole message of these readings.