The readings today call us to reflect on what it means to truly be blessed. The world often measures success by wealth, power, and comfort, but Jesus, in the Gospel of Luke (6:17, 20-26), turns this thinking upside down. He proclaims blessings on the poor, the hungry, the sorrowful, and the persecuted, while warning those who place their security in worldly riches and fleeting pleasures.

This radical call to trust in God rather than in human strength echoes the first reading from Jeremiah (17:5-8), where the prophet contrasts the barren life of one who trusts in man with the flourishing life of one who trusts in the Lord. Just as a tree planted by the waters remains fruitful despite drought, so too does the soul rooted in God remain steadfast in trials.

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati lived this message with remarkable clarity. He embodied the Beatitudes, making them the foundation of his daily life. Though born into privilege, he did not cling to wealth; instead, he spent his energy serving the poor and the sick, seeing Christ in them. He lived spiritual poverty, detaching himself from material things to embrace a life of charity. His hunger was not just for food, but for justice—he defended the oppressed and stood firm in his Catholic faith despite opposition.

Pier Giorgio also knew the reality of suffering, facing misunderstandings even from his own family. Yet, he bore all trials with joy, his heart set on “the heights”—both in the mountains he loved to climb and in his spiritual journey toward heaven. He took to heart the words of St. Paul in today’s second reading (1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20): Christ’s resurrection is our greatest hope. It is this hope that sustained Pier Giorgio in his short but impactful life, knowing that true happiness is found in Christ alone.

As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: Where do we place our trust? Are we seeking the Beatitudes in our own lives, as Pier Giorgio did? Do we stand with the poor, the sorrowful, the persecuted? Are we longing for the eternal joy of the Resurrection?

May we, like Blessed Pier Giorgio, live out the Beatitudes with courage, trusting in God’s providence, and climbing ever higher—verso l’alto!—to the heights of holiness.