Blessings and Woes – Reflection on Luke 6:20-26
Blessings and woes allow us to consider what Jesus says as a two-sided coin. Consider one side represents our physical side, and the other is our spiritual but mingled into one coin. For instance, breaking even financially in our physical world is a blessing we should rejoice in because we can focus on our time and talents. Discerning how much of ourselves we give requires prayer. Years ago, after reflecting on this specific reading, I encountered a unique understanding of Jesus’s Blessings. I had watched the rising sun cast a subtle beam of light over golden tassels of corn in the large field behind my house. My senses consumed the gift with great awe, filling me with joy and peace. I realized as workers in the field, we enter the world to help heal anger, intolerance, selfishness, and lack of faith to overcome woes to receive blessings. It made me see posting these often very personal reflections should be added to my early morning as a way of helping. Lord, let Your glory bless and overwhelm us so Your love can ripple through us to those who need You.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot (full resolution painting)
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Luke 6: 20-26 – Scripture*
Blessings and Woes
20 Then he looked up at his disciples and said:
“Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.
21 “Blessed are you who are hungry now,
for you will be filled.
“Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
22 “Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. 23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.
24 “But woe to you who are rich,
for you have received your consolation.
25 “Woe to you who are full now,
for you will be hungry.
“Woe to you who are laughing now,
for you will mourn and weep.
26 “Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel reading and considering this Lectio Divina Luke 6:20-26 Reflection – Blessings and Woes.
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Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite the world’s distractions.
Attributions
This site has written permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Luke 6 Bible passage.
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This Lectio Divina on Luke 6:20-26 Reflection – Blessings and Woes is in the Lectionary season of Ordinary Time.
Additional Lectio Divina Scripture reflections are available by season.