VIII. Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Mt.5:10)
January 12, 2007
At first glance it is hard to see how persecution contributes to anyone’s happiness. In fact, many kinds of persecution do not. We can be persecuted out of prejudice, hatred, jealousy, ignorance and our lives made miserable not happy. But Our Lord is speaking of persecution arising from our pursuit of righteousness, holiness of life. This is the kind of persecution that leads to happiness, for it forces us to grow stronger in our commitment to the Gospel.
The proof of an athlete’s excellence is his success in competition against those who excel in the sport. The proof of the strength of our commitment to practice the virtues is our determination to be virtuous with those who are not. For it is hard to be kind to those who are not. It is hard to be patient with those who are impatient and in situations that push us to the limit. But by being pushed beyond our present limits we can grow in virtue for we succeed in acting virtuously by God’s grace. Our commitment to him remains firm in the face of ever more threatening challenges. When we are firm in the face of assaults against our religious faith, our trust in God and our commitment to do his will become more and more deeply rooted in our minds and hearts. This faith commitment allows us to see what is truly important - doing God’s will, holiness of life - and never lets us lose our focus or relax in our efforts. In fact, as we progress in holiness, we are less and less inclined to do evil, e.g., to be unkind or impatient, we would never even think of lying or stealing. The stronger our commitment to holiness, the less evil attracts us. What attracts us more than giving in to any excess of emotion or temporary immoral satisfaction is acting in a Christ-like way in every situation.
When we suffer persecution for the sake of righteousness, therefore, we grow stronger and stronger in our commitment to Christ. Our lives are rooted in faith, which the gates of hell shall not prevail against. The strength of our commitment comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling within us who comforts us in our trials by pouring his gifts into our hearts; charity, joy, peace, patience, long suffering, gentleness and chastity (Ga 5:8). In the midst of all our trials, then, we are never alone, never deprived of the support we need. Our commitment remains strong and our souls at peace. Besides the firmness and tranquility we experience in our present lives, we also know what awaits us in eternity. Christ has told us: “Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven” (Mt. 5:11-12).
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