1 Kings 17:1-6 / Matthew 5:1-12
We have often heard it said that this is a beautiful world.
As much as it is true, the contrary may also be true.
Because there are some creatures that could hardly be called beautiful.
So when we say that the world and creation is beautiful, we are just looking at the nice and pretty side of the world.
We can’t really explain why some creatures are not that pretty or pleasant to look at.
In the first reading, when the prophet Elijah was taking refuge from the famine, it was the ravens that brought bread to him in the morning and meat in the evening.
Ravens are unsightly birds and they make a sound that is not pleasant to the ears, and they are also scavengers.
Yet it was these lowly and unfavoured birds that brought food for Elijah and sustained him.
So, it can be said that the ravens brought God’s blessings to Elijah.
God’s blessings often come in unexpected forms and ways.
But when we accept to be poor in spirit, to be gentle and humble, to be kind and generous, then we will be blessed by God.
And may we be a blessing for others by showing them the ways of God.