The nine beatitudes in Matthew's Gospel speak of blessings/happiness paradoxically. Jesus declared the poor, hungry, thirsty, meek and pure, the hatred and persecution as 'blessed', and promised them the end-time blessings of the Kingdom. There are two sets of 4 beatitudes in Matthew (5:3-6,7-10) and the last one on the persecuted (5:11-12).

Given the present realities in the world, we need to deepen our understanding and reflection on the 'beatitude of the persecuted'. Though it may refer to the historical happening during Jesus' time, we still experience 'persecution' today but in different forms.

As disciples of Jesus, we would expect to suffer the effects of persecution. This is obvious in countries where persecution is still going on at this moment. As such, the beatitudes of Jesus are a challenge to us: to embrace suffering as a source of our growth and strength in our life experiences.

The recent visit of Pope Francis to Iraq serves as a pointer to this beatitude of persecution and show the suffering of Christians can bring about redemption and conversion of hearts and give courage to those who suffer such direct persecution.

The first reading speaks of the comfort assured by God who comforts us in all our sorrows and the hope that we can look forward to, as provided by our Lord Jesus Christ.