Reflection for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2026

Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13; Psalm 146; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31; Matthew 5:1-12a

 

Blessed are the peacemakers

 

In the 1800s a gifted inventor was humbled by the destructive use of his creative work, but the way he invested its proceeds became a new celebration of peace. Are you perhaps familiar with Alfred Nobel and his story? The brilliant Swedish chemist and inventor Alfred Nobel made a fortune as a young man. His invention in 1867 of the explosive substance called dynamite increased his wealth.

 

The eventual use of dynamite in violent warfare gave rise to public criticism and the ensuing damage to his reputation disheartened Alfred. He later sought to make amends by using his immense riches to recognize individuals who had benefitted mankind (della Quercia, Reader’s Digest, July 2025). This highly-esteemed award is now known world-wide as the Nobel Peace Prize.

 

The great benefits of these endowments emerged only after Mr. Nobel’s humiliation. Humility is often painful to acquire, as it frequently comes through embarrassing experiences that force us to face an unflattering image of ourselves.

 

Today’s readings emphasize the virtue of humility—or truth, the synonym Saint Teresa of Avila used to describe this foundational virtue. Truth and beauty are attributes of Our Lord, the Prince of Peace. Though we do not always welcome it, the self-knowledge gained through humility can lead to a lasting peace of heart.

 

Alfred Nobel didn’t give up after being criticized. Instead, he became a promoter of the idea of peace. The same can be true for us. You may notice in the Beatitudes in today’s Gospel, what great blessings proceed from qualities which do not usually predict success! By reading the Beatitudes slowly and prayerfully, the Holy Spirit may call your attention to something on which the Lord would like you to focus. Notice the many blessings that come from practicing the virtues Jesus calls us to live!

 

Although Alfred Nobel was not a peacemaker in his own actions, his endowment of the Nobel Peace Prize has made him an indirect peacemaker by enabling and rewarding the peace efforts of others. As you practice the Beatitudes in your own life, may you experience the abundant blessings that they promise.

 

Friends, know that your generosity inspires us. We pray that your reward in the kingdom of heaven includes what is written in today’s Psalm 146:

 

Blessed are the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs.

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“With Mary, our lives continually proclaim the greatness of the Lord and the joy experienced in rendering service to Him.”

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