Blessed are they who love the value of family and friends over everything else – the brother or sister who is always there for the family, the devoted volunteer – for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are they who grieve for the lost and who struggle to cope and continue – the single parent trying to raise a family alone, the mother or father who keep an open heart and an outreached hand to a wayward son or daughter – for they shall be comforted.

Blessed are they who find their joy in the happiness of others – the devoted parent, the dedicated teacher – for they shall inherit the earth.

Blessed are they who manage to see beyond their own interests and needs to the greater common good and their responsibility to others – for they shall be satisfied.



Blessed are they who treat classmates, co-workers and employees with respect and dignity, who remember that they have been forgiven by a compassionate God and readily extend that forgiveness and compassion to others – for they shall receive mercy.

Blessed are they who dedicate their lives in seeking God’s justice and forgiveness in all things and who put themselves at the service of others to help them discover the joy of God’s presence in their lives – for they shall see God.



Blessed are the peacemakers, those who possess that rare gift for bringing people together when anger and selfishness threaten to drive them apart, who readily take the first step in forgiving and being reconciled with others, who bring healing to those who have been hurt, forgotten or marginalised – for they are sons and daughters of God.



Blessed are they who are persecuted and ridiculed for what is right and just, parents, teachers and dedicated individuals who stand in opposition to false perceptions, destructive stereotypes and an ever more alienated and cynical society, who speak for the needs of children and for justice for the poor, compassion for the fallen and lost and loving support for the abused – for the reign of God is theirs.

Be glad and rejoice in the gift that is today, for your reward will be great in heaven.



Thought For The Week is updated each Monday with a new photograph each day