Memorial
of Saint Pius of Pietrelcina, priest
(Proverbs 30:5-9; Luke 9:1-6)
Today’s readings provide an explanation of
the first beatitude, “Blessed are the poor in spirit…” Proverbs asserts that
rich people, trusting in their wealth, are likely to deny God as the source of
their well-being. The gospel illustrates
Jesus’ awareness of God’s graciousness as he sends his apostles on mission. He tells them to take with them no more than the
clothes on their backs. His directive implies that God will provide for all
their needs.
To be poor is one thing and to live in
misery is another. The poor have bread
to eat but little more. The miserable
live in dire need. They lack what is essential to live, be it food, peace of
mind, or whatever. They may steal, as the proverb
indicates, or commit another kind of atrocity which only multiplies their
troubles.
Most of us have a good deal more than enough. Yet many forget to thank God for what they
have as they grasp for more. If we do that,
we become pitiable like the scrounging miserable. We will roam with unsettled
hearts worrying without cause.
