Scripture Reflection, February 1, 2026, Fourth Sunday in Ordnary Time

Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13 1Corinthians 126-31 Matthew 5:1-12a

As I write this reflection, world leaders are gathering at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Because I have been reflecting on today's gospel, the words of our president jumped out at me. He described our country as, “rich, powerful, and strong.

Again, I looked at the gospel, the Beatitudes, which Pope Francis described as "the Christian’s identity card. “ I saw very different qualities: poor in spirit, meek, hungry for righteousness, merciful, peace-making. And I must admit to a certain feeling of powerlessness, helplessness, when I saw the chasm between the two. How to bridge that chasm, I wondered? What can I do? How can private virtue become public policy? Is that even possible?

If you also feel overwhelmed by the task, I suggest a look at the other scriptures the church has given us this day. The prophet Zephaniah in today's first reading refers to a “remnant,” a portion of Israel who will stay committed to God's will for them. Our psalm response reminds us that God keeps faith forever, is on the side of justice, protects and sustains the powerless. Paul reminds the Corinthians that being powerful by human standards is not the point or even desirable. It is faithfulness to Jesus, relying on him, that is our call.

And those scriptures give me hope. I recognize a remnant, a small group committed to those Beatitudes. They mourn with those who weep because their families have been torn apart. They refuse to meet violence with more violence. They hunger for justice and work for peace. They are not the majority; Zephaniah was right. But they exist. Every time I hear a bishop take a public stand in support of immigrants, every time a hot meal is served by a small group of volunteers in a soup kitchen, every time a legislator refuses to be intimidated by the powerful… I am reminded that God has chosen ordinary folks, “not powerful or noble by human standards,” to take up the challenge of the Beatitudes, to help build the kingdom of God on earth.

I doubt that Jesus was ever called rich, powerful and strong. As his followers we aspire to be simply… faithful.

by: Pat Schnee, OPA