Luke 2:20-21, 40-52
What is the true source of joy and happiness that so many find elusive? Jesus begins his teaching on the way to the kingdom of heaven by addressing the issue of where true happiness is found. The word beatitude literally means happiness or blessedness. However, Jesus’ way of happiness demands a transformation from within — a conversion of heart and mind which can only come about through the gift of the Holy Spirit. How can one find happiness in poverty, hunger, mourning, and persecution? If we want to be filled with the joy and happiness of heaven, then we must empty ourselves of all that would shut God out of our hearts. The poverty of spirit finds ample room and joy in possessing God alone as the greatest treasure possible. Hunger of the spirit seeks nourishment and strength in God’s word and Spirit. Sorrowing and mourning over wasted life and sin leads to joyful freedom from guilt and oppression. God reveals the true source of abundant life and happiness to the humble heart. Jesus promises his disciples that the joys of heaven will more than compensate for the troubles and hardships they can expect in this world. Thomas Aquinas said: No person can live without joy. That is why someone deprived of spiritual joy goes after carnal pleasures. Do you know the joy and happiness of hungering and thirsting for God alone?
Do you recognize your Father in heaven? Jesus went up to the temple for his first Passover at the dawn of his manhood (usually the age of twelve for Jewish males). At this crucial turning point in his earthly life, Jesus took the name “father” from Joseph and addressed it to God his Father in heaven. Just as the prophet Samuel heard the call of the Lord at a very young age, Jesus, in his youth, recognized that his heavenly Father had given him a call. His answer to his mother’s anxious inquiry reveals his trusting faith and confident determination to pursue his heavenly Father’s will. Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house? While Jesus recognized his unique call, he, nonetheless, submitted himself with love and obedience to Joseph and Mary and waited for the time when his call would be fulfilled.
Our Heavenly Father calls each of us to a unique task and mission in this life. We may not discover or understand it entirely, but if we cooperate with God, he will use us for his purpose and plan. With the call, God gives the grace to say “yes” to his will and persevere through obstacles and trials. Do you recognize God’s call on your life and trust in his grace?
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