Many  around the world are celebrating the graduation season.  I've spent some time of late reflecting on today's gospel in which Jesus teaches the beatitudes.  You see, our pastor spoke on the beatitudes at Mass as my son and his classmates finished grade school.  What a perfect lesson to share as people are sent out on the next leg of their journey on this earth. 

When I reflect on daily readings, I find myself trying to learn as well.  I had a language lesson as I was trying to educate myself on the beatitudes.  Beatitude is Latin for 'an abundant happiness'.  Each of the beatitudes begins with the word 'blessed.'  The Greek word translated as 'blessed' means 'extremely fortunate, well off, and truly happy because one is favored by God.'  It's clear to me that that God loves us so very much.  He sent his son to teach us the way to achieve 'abundant happiness.'  Jesus TOLD us how to do this, and he SHOWED us how to do this.  I believe that God continues to send people, and situations our way to reinforce this teaching.

Pope Francis referred to the beatitudes in his World Youth Day 2014 message.  He reminds us that Jesus "asks us to follow him and to travel with him along the path of love, the path that alone leads to eternal life.  It is not an easy journey, yet the Lord promises us his grace and he never abandons us." 

Personally, I have a colleague who seems to be in a very difficult place.  It seems she has been in this place for many, many years. Unfortunately, her unhappiness has negatively impacted so many people whom she has encountered.  As a nurse, I tend to feel the need to 'fix things.' I reached out to her on several occasions hoping that if she felt she had a friend, perhaps she would experience some kind of happiness. These attempts failed miserably.  This was very difficult for me.  I typically make friends with ease, and according to Gallup Strengthsfinder—one of my top strengths is 'Includer' (stretch the circle wider—include people and make them feel part of the group). How could this person not want to be part of a wonderful group of people?  How does this relate to the beatitudes?  Pope Francis, again in the WYD address, challenges us to "remember all those who feel unloved ... go out to meet them, look into their eyes and listen to them."  Pope Francis reminded us that this isn't an easy journey, but the Lord is with us.    Back to my colleague who remains in a dark place.  I continue to pray for her in hope that she can find peace and happiness somewhere...  Blessed are the Poor in Spirit. 

Pope Francis reminds us that Jesus "asks us to follow him and to travel with him along the path of love, the path that alone leads to eternal life.  It is not an easy journey, yet the Lord promises us his grace and he never abandons us."  As many celebrate the Jubilee Year of Mercy, I see parallels between the Beatitudes, and the Works of Mercy.  They both invite us to a way of living that brings happiness, peace, and a way to center our lives on  God.  During this season of graduations, I honestly cannot think of a better lesson for all to carry with them than the message of the beatitudes, which were taught by Jesus Christ himself a very long time ago at the top of a mountain.

What helps me to live out today's Gospel in my daily life? In my home life? At work? In my community? In the wider world?