Today’s readings put in sharp contrast the two pathways we must choose between in our journey of life which lead to totally different destinations. They address in what or in whom we place our trust. These readings make it clear we must place our trust in God and follow the path He modeled in the Gospels. In the first reading, Jeremiah describes that one way is the path of the cursed person, who places trust in human beings. He is like a “barren bush” standing in a “lava waste.” Keep in mind that Jeremiah is speaking to the Israelites who were placing their sole trust in military and economic strength at a time when they were under siege by Babylon. Jeremiah is directing them back to God, placing their trust and hope in Him. They will then be like the tree planted along the stream, bearing fruit even during times of heat and drought. The psalm of David uses similar imagery describing the blessed one as he who places his hope and trust in the Lord. Again, he will be like the tree planted near running water “whose leaves never fade,” But the wicked (those who have turned away from God) “are like chaff which the wind drives away.”  

Jesus is making the same point in today’s Gospel. His question is: Where is your hope? Where is your heart? What is your top priority? Is it the pleasure and power and wealth of this world? Or is it in your relationship with God, your hope for eternity? Jesus blesses the poor, the hungry, the weeping and the persecuted. Why? Because lacking the riches and power of this world, they are not “blinded” and distracted and can focus rightly on obtaining or “inheriting” the greater riches of the kingdom of heaven. Jesus expresses woe and pity for those who have placed their priority on the pleasures of this world. They are fleeting. The love of God is life’s greatest investment, and it begins to pay off even in this world. We can see this in the stories of the Saints whose lives were alight with true joy despite suffering and martyrdom. This joy arises from releasing anxiety and the desire for control, finding true security in God's love and promises instead. While we may never achieve official Sainthood, we, too, can place our sole trust and hope in the Lord and live a life of “joy” here on earth. 

Reflection by Parishioner Dale Gerber