Embracing the Blessing of Poverty in Spirit: Insights from Fr. Joe Tetlow, S.J.

Embracing the Blessing of Poverty in Spirit: Insights from Fr. Joe Tetlow, S.J.

Jesus said, "Blessed [happy] are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

What makes the poor in spirit blessed and happy?

Firstly, the disciple who is poor in spirit recognizes everything—life, sunshine, lunch, family, as gifts. We don't "earn" our lives; rather, everything we have is a gift from our Creator who journeys with us in our daily lives.

Secondly, the poor in spirit are grateful for who they are and what they have. From life and health to sufferings, they see everything as God's provision, finding contentment in His gifts even as they ask for what they need.

Moreover, the poor in spirit enjoy all of God's gifts. This joy is Christ's gift to us, and finding joy in what we are and what we have completes our gratitude.

In Christ, being poor in spirit is a state of blessing and happiness because theirs is already the kingdom of heaven.

By Fr. Joe Tetlow, S.J.