The Solemnity of All Saints: A Path to True Happiness in Christ
Gospel Reflection for November 1, 2024
In the Beatitudes, the word "happy" (often translated as "blessed") is derived from the Greek word makarios, which conveys a profound sense of spiritual contentment, joy, and inner peace rather than mere pleasure or external happiness. This "blessedness" describes a state of well-being and divine favor that comes from living in alignment with God’s will and sharing in His love. It implies a deep-seated happiness rooted in the soul, flourishing even amid difficulties or suffering.
Christ emphasizes this happiness in the Beatitudes to teach that true fulfillment doesn’t come from worldly success, wealth, or comfort but from embracing humility, mercy, righteousness, and a pure heart. Each Beatitude reflects qualities of God’s kingdom that are often countercultural and invite believers to find joy in spiritual virtues and eternal promises rather than transient earthly gains. Christ’s message is that this “happiness” is available now to those who choose to follow Him, promising a foretaste of the ultimate joy of union with God. This happiness, rooted in a relationship with God, offers the strength to face trials and the promise of everlasting joy in heaven.
So how do we achieve or find this happiness? Phillip Hadden, founder of Missio Dei, explains in his 2022 article that it’s simple. As he writes, “We need to know, love, and serve the Lord. The saints show us through their lives—whether it be Thérèse of Lisieux or our neighbor down the street—that we can find this happiness through humility.” I wholeheartedly agree.
Take some time today to reflect on Jesus’ words.
"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."
Enjoy this special day! All Saints' Day offers hope and reminds believers of the ultimate goal of eternal union with God in heaven. This day includes a holy obligation to attend Mass, featuring prayers and readings that highlight the glory of the saints.
Check out Phillip’s article for All Saint’s Day 2022 here: Be a Saint & Be Happy