Today’s readings gently but firmly turn our attention away from pride, power, and self-reliance, and back toward humility, trust, and dependence on God.

In Zephaniah, the prophet calls the people to “seek the Lord… seek humility.” God promises that a poor and lowly remnant will remain “people who no longer rely on deceit or strength, but who take refuge in the name of the Lord”. God is not drawn to noise and arrogance, but to quiet hearts that trust Him.

Saint Paul speaks this truth in the second reading. He reminds us that God did not choose many who were wise or powerful by human standards. Instead, God chose the weak and the lowly so that no one may boast before Him. Our dignity does not come from what we achieve, but from who we belong to-Christ Jesus, who is our wisdom, righteousness, and salvation.

This prepares us for the Beatitudes in the Gospel, the heart of Jesus’ teaching. Here, Jesus turns the world’s values upside down. The blessed are not the rich, the satisfied, or the powerful, but the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, the peacemakers, and those who hunger for righteousness. These are not passive people, but people who have learned to depend on God rather than themselves. 

Dear friends, today’s readings teach us that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who know their need for God. True blessing is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of God in humble hearts. When we let go of pride and self-sufficiency, we make room for God’s grace.

As we go into this week, the question is simple: Where am I placing my trust? In my own strength or in the Lord? Jesus assures us that when we choose humility, mercy, and faithfulness, we are already walking the path of true blessedness.

Amen

Your Priest,

Father Anthony Dim