St. Eusebius of Vercelli was born at the beginning of the fourth century on the island of Sardinia. He became a member of the Roman clergy and in 345 was elected first bishop of Vercelli. He spread religion by his preaching and established the monastic life in his diocese for his clergy. He lived a monastic life among his diocesan priests. Because of his faith he was driven into exile by Emperor Constantius who was an Arian (an Arian denied the divinity of Christ, saying Christ was not equal to the Father, but simply made by him) – and endured much suffering. Returning to his country he worked tirelessly against the Arians for the restoration of the faith especially by endorsing and promoting the Athanasian Creed which clearly defined the divinity of Christ. He died at Vercelli in 371.
The first reading today relates how the true victory that conquers the world – with all of its misgivings, its false senses and its error regarding religious and secular affairs – IS THIS FAITH OF OURS! - those who believe in God and listen to the one whom he sent, and keep his commandments is victor over the world!
The gospel passage tells us who are most qualified to have faith in good working order: and they are THE POOR IN SPIRIT! – those who have left an enormous amount of room in their hearts and minds in order for God to come and fill them with all the good things, all the true riches, the spiritual riches, that they need in order to get through this life's difficult journey – to the joys of complete victory when the Kingdom comes in its fullness.
Blessed are the poor in spirit – for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven!
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