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Gospel Reading for November 01, 2026 – Matthew 5: 1-12a
POSITIVITY
Solemnity of Saints
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger
and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted
for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”
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During the time of Jesus, the approach of the elders, scribes, and Pharisees toward religion was largely negative. They looked down on sinners and on people who did not follow the Laws of God, which they had multiplied and made complicated. They believed that these people would not be able to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
Jesus’ approach was the opposite of that of the Pharisees. He emphasized POSITIVITY. He placed greater importance on the rewards we would receive when we do good and how doing good gives us a good life.
Jesus’ being Saviour did not mean he came into the world to tell us what we were doing wrong. He came to show us what we could become when we allow God’s Spirit to work within us.
The Beatitudes, as they are called, bring out the many good qualities that people can possess. These are the qualities of people created in God’s image and likeness. They are also the very qualities that Jesus himself possessed.
Lord Jesus, may your Spirit always give us the courage to follow you wholeheartedly. Amen.
All Saints in heaven, pray for us!
