This marks the frame of the Beatitudes in Matthew's Gospel. Matthew has arranged the Beatitudes in two sets that is 5:3-6 and 5:7-10 and one on persecution (5:11-12). Each set has its climax in the virtue of 'righteousness'. The first set refers to the passive attitudes (poor in spirit, gentle, mourning, hungry and thirsty) while the second set focuses on activity and active virtues such as 'merciful' (5:7), pure in heart (5:8), peacemakers (5:9) and the persecuted (5:10).

These Beatitudes emphasize the qualities and virtues to be practiced in order to share the blessings of the Kingdom. Expressions like 'poor in spirit', 'meek', 'pure in heart' refer to the qualities and virtues required of Jesus' followers - us, the Christian community. They describe what Jesus Himself is and we, as His followers, are to model ourselves on and witness to. If we consistently follow what the Beatitudes say, we are also assured of Jesus' constant care and guidance as it is clearly affirmed in the first reading. For indeed we will experience 'the gentle Father and God of all consolations, who comforts us in all our sorrows.' So that we can do the same with others especially those who are deprived and marginalized in our society.