The Feast of St Edward the Confessor | Thursday 13 October 2022

Today is Thursday the 13th of October, the feast of St Edward the Confessor, in the 28th week of Ordinary Time.

The Kyiv Chamber Choir sings, ‘Bless O Lord’. As you listen, take a moment to ponder the word ‘bless’…how does it speak to you as we begin this time or prayer today?

(Lyrics currently unavailable)

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 5:1-12

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

What makes someone stand out in a crowd? In today’s passage Jesus singles out for blessing the very people who might hold back, who normally might fade into, or be swallowed up by, a crowd. What could I learn from these ones so precious to God? Perhaps I am one of them. I might feel insignificant. How does it feel to be especially noticed by the Lord?

“Blessed are the merciful.” How could I choose to be merciful today?

As you listen to the passage again, consider Jesus’ way.

As this prayer time draws to a close, speak with the Lord, about what has stirred in you today.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.