THE BEATITUDES

20 Then looking up at his disciples, he said:e

Blessed are you who are poor,

because the kingdom of God is yours.

21 Blessed are you who are hungry now,

because you will be filled.

Blessed are you who weep now,

because you will laugh.

22 Blessed are you when people hate you,

when they exclude you,f insult you,

and slander your name as evilg

because of the Son of Man.h

23 “Rejoice in that day and leap for joy. Take note—your reward is great in heaven, for this is the way their ancestors used to treat the prophets.i

WOE TO THE SELF-SATISFIED

24 But woe to you who are rich,

for you have received your comfort.

25 Woe to you who are now full,

for you will be hungry.

Woe to you Awho are now laughing,

for you will mourn and weep.

26 Woe to youA

when all people speak well of you,

for this is the way their ancestors

used to treat the false prophets.j

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

27 “But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.k 29 If anyone hits you on the cheek,l offer the other also. And if anyone takes away your coat, don’t hold back your shirt either. 30 Give to everyone who asks you, and from someone who takes your things, don’t ask for them back. 31 Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them.m 32 If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them.n 33 If you do what is good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you?o Even sinners lend to sinners to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do what is good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High.p For he is gracious to the ungrateful and evil. 36 Be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.q